HYDROCELE
Hydrocele is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the scrotum, leading to swelling. It is commonly seen in newborns but can also occur in adults, often due to injury or inflammation. Hydroceles are usually painless and may not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or are associated with an underlying condition.
Hydrocele (Testicular Hydrocele): Modern Methods of Diagnosis and Treatment
A hydrocele is the accumulation of serous fluid between the layers of the testicle, causing the scrotum to enlarge and potentially leading to a feeling of heaviness, tension, or discomfort. This condition can occur in males of any age, from newborns to the elderly, and can be either congenital or acquired.
Causes of Hydrocele Development
- Inflammatory processes (orchitis, epididymitis);
- Trauma to the scrotum or groin area;
- Consequences of surgeries on scrotal organs;
- Impaired lymphatic drainage following infections or hernias;
- Congenital non-closure of the vaginal process of the peritoneum in children.
In most cases, the condition develops gradually and may not cause significant symptoms for a long time.
Symptoms of Hydrocele
- Enlargement of one side of the scrotum (sometimes both);
- A feeling of heaviness, distension, and sometimes pain when walking;
- Asymmetry of the scrotum;
- With significant fluid volume, difficulties in urination or sexual intercourse.
Pain, redness, and fever require immediate examination by a urologist as they may indicate inflammation or complications.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of hydrocele is simple and painless:
- Examination by a urologist and palpation of the scrotum;
- Transillumination (shining light through) to detect fluid in the scrotum;
- Ultrasound of the scrotal organs to clarify the volume of fluid and the condition of the testicle and epididymis;
- Blood and urine tests if necessary.
Treatment of Hydrocele
The approach depends on the cause and severity of the condition.
1. Observation.
In mild cases in children, hydrocele may resolve on its own by 1–2 years of age.
2. Aspiration.
Removal of fluid with a fine needle is a temporary measure used when surgery is not possible or as preparation.
3. Surgical treatment (hydrocelectomy).
The most effective method.
Performed under local or general anesthesia through a small incision.
The surgeon removes excess fluid and reinforces the testicular membranes to prevent recurrence.
The procedure takes about 30–40 minutes, with recovery in 7–10 days.
Advantages of Hydrocele Treatment at "Genesis Dnipro" Clinic
- Experienced urologist-surgeons;
- Modern equipment and safe anesthesia;
- Minimally invasive surgeries;
- Sterile conditions and comfortable stay;
- Quick results and recovery;
- Complete confidentiality and respectful care.
Post-Operation
The patient can return home on the day of the operation or the next day.
Doctor's recommendations include:
- Wearing supportive underwear;
- Limiting physical activity for 1–2 weeks;
- Wound care and inflammation prevention;
- Follow-up examination in 7–10 days.
After healing, scrotal symmetry is restored, and discomfort and aesthetic issues disappear.
Why It Is Important Not to Delay Treatment
Hydrocele does not resolve on its own in adults and can lead to:
- Compression of the testicle and impaired function;
- Tissue atrophy;
- Infertility;
- Inflammatory complications.
Early diagnosis and timely surgery allow for complete resolution of the problem.
Care and Professionalism
At "Genesis Dnipro" Clinic, hydrocele treatment is conducted with attention, respect, and care for each patient. Our urologists select the optimal treatment method, ensuring comfort, safety, and excellent results.
A hydrocele is the accumulation of serous fluid between the layers of the testicle, causing the scrotum to enlarge and potentially leading to a feeling of heaviness, tension, or discomfort. This condition can occur in males of any age, from newborns to the elderly, and can be either congenital or acquired.
Causes of Hydrocele Development
- Inflammatory processes (orchitis, epididymitis);
- Trauma to the scrotum or groin area;
- Consequences of surgeries on scrotal organs;
- Impaired lymphatic drainage following infections or hernias;
- Congenital non-closure of the vaginal process of the peritoneum in children.
In most cases, the condition develops gradually and may not cause significant symptoms for a long time.
Symptoms of Hydrocele
- Enlargement of one side of the scrotum (sometimes both);
- A feeling of heaviness, distension, and sometimes pain when walking;
- Asymmetry of the scrotum;
- With significant fluid volume, difficulties in urination or sexual intercourse.
Pain, redness, and fever require immediate examination by a urologist as they may indicate inflammation or complications.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of hydrocele is simple and painless:
- Examination by a urologist and palpation of the scrotum;
- Transillumination (shining light through) to detect fluid in the scrotum;
- Ultrasound of the scrotal organs to clarify the volume of fluid and the condition of the testicle and epididymis;
- Blood and urine tests if necessary.
Treatment of Hydrocele
The approach depends on the cause and severity of the condition.
1. Observation.
In mild cases in children, hydrocele may resolve on its own by 1–2 years of age.
2. Aspiration.
Removal of fluid with a fine needle is a temporary measure used when surgery is not possible or as preparation.
3. Surgical treatment (hydrocelectomy).
The most effective method.
Performed under local or general anesthesia through a small incision.
The surgeon removes excess fluid and reinforces the testicular membranes to prevent recurrence.
The procedure takes about 30–40 minutes, with recovery in 7–10 days.
Advantages of Hydrocele Treatment at "Genesis Dnipro" Clinic
- Experienced urologist-surgeons;
- Modern equipment and safe anesthesia;
- Minimally invasive surgeries;
- Sterile conditions and comfortable stay;
- Quick results and recovery;
- Complete confidentiality and respectful care.
Post-Operation
The patient can return home on the day of the operation or the next day.
Doctor's recommendations include:
- Wearing supportive underwear;
- Limiting physical activity for 1–2 weeks;
- Wound care and inflammation prevention;
- Follow-up examination in 7–10 days.
After healing, scrotal symmetry is restored, and discomfort and aesthetic issues disappear.
Why It Is Important Not to Delay Treatment
Hydrocele does not resolve on its own in adults and can lead to:
- Compression of the testicle and impaired function;
- Tissue atrophy;
- Infertility;
- Inflammatory complications.
Early diagnosis and timely surgery allow for complete resolution of the problem.
Care and Professionalism
At "Genesis Dnipro" Clinic, hydrocele treatment is conducted with attention, respect, and care for each patient. Our urologists select the optimal treatment method, ensuring comfort, safety, and excellent results.
