Scrotal Problems
Hydrocele: A hydrocele is a fluid sac around the testicle
Spermatocele/epididymal cyst: A spermatocele or epididymal cyst is a fluid-filled sac within the epididymis of the testicle.
Scrotal skin lesions: Many different scrotal skin issues exist. The most common that we see that can be removed surgically is benign sebaceous cysts of the scrotum
Varicocele: A varicocele is a dilated vein to the testicle. It is common and only infrequently causes problems.
Edema of scrotum: Scrotal edema is seen in men with kidney or congestive heart failure.
Trauma: Injury to the scrotum is very uncommon. Most scrotal trauma is fixed surgically.
HYDROCELE
A hydrocele is a fluid filled sac around and attached to the testicle itself. Hydroceles form from a embryologically derived persistence of the processes vaginalis called the tunica vaginalis. Although all men have a potential to form a hydrocele only some men do. For reasons unknown, the tunica vaginalis can begin to collect fluid and become a hydrocele. The hydrocele can form suddenly and painfully, or it can grow slowly over many years and never cause pain or be bothersome in terms of size.
Hydroceles that are bothersome require surgery to get rid of the fluid and the fluid sac. The surgery is called a hydrocelectomy, The procedures are straightforward surgical procedures where patients go home the same day. Recovery usually requires 1-3 weeks of rest and light activity. Complications such as bleeding and infection are uncommon. The most common problem after a hydrocelectomy is recurrence of the hydrocele
EPIDIDYMAL CYST OR SPERMATOCELE
Epididymal cysts and spermatoceles are both fluid filled sacs that form within the epididymis. An epididymal cyst contains clear, straw colored fluid. A spermatocele contains sperm. All men have the potential to form an epididymal cyst or spermatocele. For most men the fluid sac is small and not painful or bothersome. Occasionally the cyst or spermatocele will become large enough to require surgical removal.
Removal of the epididymal cyst or spermatocele is typically done as an outpatient procedure with the patient going home the same day. The procedure is straightforward and recovery usually takes 1-3 week rest and light activity. Risks of surgery included bleeding, infection, and, very rarely, injury of the epididymis or blood supply to the testicle.