What happens during a hydrocelectomy? Hydrocelectomy is an operation to correct the swelling of the scrotum that occurs in hydrocele (a condition in men in which there is an increase in the amount of fluid between the protective layers around the testicles). Hydrocelectomy requires general anesthesia. After the anesthetic has taken effect, a small incision is made in the scrotum or in the groin near the scrotum. When it comes to a communicating hydrocele (a type of hydrocele in which there is an entry of peritoneal fluid from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum due to a passage between them), the surgeon must close the communication (processus vaginalis). The testicles are then excised (Bergmann’s operation). In some cases, a hernia and a hydrocele may be present at the same time. If a hernia is involved or the hernia is discovered during the procedure, it is usually repaired as well. In most cases, hydrocelectomy takes less than an hour. The surgeon may place small silicone tubes in the affected area to drain (drain) the blood or fluid. Once the procedure is complete, the surgeon covers the stitches with a bandage. Ice packs should be applied to the area for at least 24 hours after the hydrocelectomy. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help relieve mild pain. The most commonly used NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. What are the benefits of hydrocelectomy? Hydrocelectomy has many advantages, including: Preventing the development of an inguinal hernia in babies. An inguinal hernia occurs in the groin and happens when part of the intestine comes out through an opening in the abdominal wall through the inguinal canal. Hydrocelectomy helps prevent the development of an inguinal hernia; Improved comfort. A hydrocele can make it difficult to comfortably sit, lie down, walk or run; Safety. Hydrocelectomy is a relatively safe procedure with a low risk of complications or side effects. Most patients go home the same day. What are the risks or complications of hydrocelectomy? All surgical procedures carry some risk. Some risks of hydrocelectomy include: Anesthesia risks; Infection; A mass of clotted blood (hematoma); Swelling; bruises; Scars; Relapse (reoccurrence of the condition). How long does recovery take after hydrocelectomy? In most cases, normal activities can be resumed about two days after hydrocelectomy. Drainage tubes (if any) are removed a day or two after surgery. When a large hydrocele has developed, the skin in the scrotum may be stretched and after the hydrocelectomy it may become loose. The scrotum should shrink back to its typical size several weeks to a month after surgery. Strenuous activities and sexual activity should be avoided for at least two weeks after surgery. When showering, the wound area should be avoided.until it heals. In babies, this area should be kept as clean and dry as possible to prevent infection. The time for full recovery varies from case to case. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions on how to relieve pain and discomfort after hydrocelectomy. References: 1. American Academy of Pediatrics. Communicating Hydrocele 2. American Urological Association. What are Hydroceles and Inguinal Hernias 3. Hackam DJ, Upperman J, Grikscheit T, et al. Pediatric Surgery. In: Brunicardi F, Andersen DK, Billiar TR, et al., eds. Schwartz’s Principles of Surgery, 11th Edition 4. Kapur P, Caty MG, Glick PL. Pediatric hernias and hydroceles