Hydrocele and Spermatocele

A number of factors can affect the scrotum and cause scrotal enlargement. Two conditions that are commonly found in men include a hydrocele and a spermatocele. A Hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle. A Spermatocele is a collection of fluid around the epididymis. The epididymis is a small organ that lies directly behind the testicle.

When patients have symptomatic hydroceles or spermatoceles surgery is generally recommended. This type of surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis and is generally a short procedure, typically less than hour. Patients, when they leave the surgical center or the hospital, generally go home with an athletic supporter and scrotal packing. The purpose of this packing is to keep the scrotum close against the body to prevent fluid reaccumulation. Because the scrotal skin is quite thin, many patients will develop some swelling of the scrotum following the procedure.

These procedures are performed routinely and patients will generally follow up in the office with us approximately 3 weeks later. Things to be concerned about following a scrotal surgery would include a fever of greater than 101 degrees or quite a bit of bruising or progressive enlargement of the scrotum following the procedure.  Pain that gets progressivly worse overtime or signs of active bleeding would be cause for concern as well.

For additional information on hydroceles and spermatoceles, Please review this List of  Permamarks.