Does the scrotum fill with water? Let's talk about this surgery (Hydrocelectomy)!

Did you get scared when you saw your little baby's testicles suddenly swollen? Or have you also experienced this kind of discomfort and pain with swollen testicles as an adult? We call this condition a hydrocele . Most of the time, it's nothing to worry about. But sometimes, a minor surgery is needed for this. So today, let's talk about what a hydrocele is and the surgery that is done for it, that is, a hydrocele ctomy.

Simply put, what is a hydrocele?

A hydrocele is a collection of fluid, or something like water, inside the sac around your testicles. This causes the scrotum to swell. It can develop in anyone of any age, but it is most common in newborn boys.

• How do small babies develop?: When a baby is in the womb, the testicles move from the abdomen down into the scrotum. This passage (processus vaginalis) usually closes on its own. But in some babies, when this passage doesn't close completely, fluid from the abdomen collects in the scrotum. That's when a hydrocele forms.
• How does it develop in adults?: There are several reasons why this can happen in older children, young adults, and adults. For example, fluid can accumulate in the testicles due to an injury , infection , or inflammation .

Does everyone need surgery (Hydrocelectomy)?

No. Most of the time, hydroceles in newborns will heal on their own within the first year without any treatment . The doctor will monitor it.

However, surgery is necessary in the following cases:

• If the baby's hydrocele hasn't gotten better after a year.
• If there is severe pain or discomfort due to swelling.
• If the swelling is so large that it interferes with walking or sitting.
• If you feel embarrassed or mentally uncomfortable because of this situation.
• If there is a condition such as an inguinal hernia along with the hydrocele.

It is at times like this that the doctor recommends a hydrocelectomy.

How do you prepare before surgery?

Before the surgery, you will meet with the doctor. He will explain the surgery to you in detail. He will ask you questions like:

• Your complete health history and the medications you take (including things like blood thinners).
• About your allergies.
• Have you had any previous injuries , infections, or surgeries in that area?

Sometimes, your doctor will ask you to shave the scrotum and surrounding area the night before or the morning of surgery. Do not use an electric razor for this . A regular single-blade disposable razor is best. Also, to reduce the risk of infection, you should wash the area thoroughly with soap and water the night before and the morning of surgery.

How the surgery is performed and its advantages and disadvantages

This is not a major surgery, usually taking less than an hour. You will be given general anesthesia , so you will not feel any pain during the procedure, and you will be asleep.

The surgeon (urologist) does:

1. A very small incision is made in the scrotum or groin area.

2. The fluid that has accumulated inside is removed and the hydrocele sac is removed.

3. Necessary measures are taken to stop the fluid from filling again.

4. Finally, the incision is closed using dissolvable stitches. Sometimes a small tube (surgical drain) may be placed to drain blood or fluid.

This is often an outpatient procedure that can be done the same day and you can go home.

Recovery time after surgery

Although recovery time varies from person to person, you can usually resume normal activities within a few days.

Take care of these things at home

• Pain control: For the first 24-48 hours, applying an ice pack wrapped in a towel to the wound can help reduce pain and swelling. Take painkillers (e.g., Paracetamol) as prescribed by your doctor.
• Supportive underwear: For one to two weeks, wearing a tight underwear (briefs) or jockstrap that provides good support to the testicles will reduce swelling and speed up healing.
• Work and exercise: Avoid strenuous exercise such as lifting weights, running, or swimming for 2-4 weeks. It is also important to avoid sexual activity for at least two weeks.
• For young children: Keep your child away from things like riding bikes and rocking horses for a while. Also, keep the wound area as clean and dry as possible.

If you have these symptoms, see a doctor immediately.

You will usually need to see your doctor again in about a week to check the stitches. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU) .

• Heavy bleeding that cannot be stopped.
• A fever of more than 100 Fahrenheit (38 Celsius).
• The area around the wound becomes red, purple, brown, or black.
• If the pain or swelling is getting worse.

It's normal to feel a little nervous or anxious about this surgery, especially when it's being performed on your child. But remember, this is a very common, very safe, and very successful minor surgery. Your doctor is always willing to talk openly with you about any questions or concerns you may have.