A hydrocele/ hydrocoele is a collection of fluid around the testicle inside the scrotum. While hydroceles are not dangerous, they can cause discomfort, heaviness, or embarrassment due to scrotal swelling. Hydrocoelectomy is a straightforward day-surgery procedure that reliably resolves the swelling with a low recurrence rate, performed under general or regional anaesthesia.
TREATMENTS
Hydrocele Repair (Hydrocoelectomy)
When Is Hydrocele Repair Recommended?
Many hydroceles can be safely observed without intervention. Surgery is recommended when:
• The hydrocele is causing significant discomfort, heaviness, or limitation of activity
• The swelling is large enough to cause practical problems or significant anxiety
• Ultrasound has confirmed a simple hydrocele and excluded underlying pathology
Surgical Techniques
• Jaboulay procedure (eversion): The hydrocele sac is opened and the edges are sutured behind the testicle to prevent fluid re-accumulating. The most commonly performed technique, with low recurrence.
• Lord's repair (plication): The sac is folded (plicated) rather than excised — suitable for thinner sac walls; a simpler procedure with less bleeding risk.
• Alternatives: Aspiration or a sclerosing injection are options, but recurrence is common and there is a risk of infection and can complicate surgical repair. These are considered for patients who may not be suitable for day surgery or based on preference
Risks and Considerations
All procedures carry risks, which your surgeon will discuss with you in detail. These may include:
• A blood collection (haematoma) — the most common issue
• Infection
• Recurrence (low after formal repair)
• Swelling and firmness for 2-3 weeks while healing
Recovery at a glance: Day surgery; supportive underwear and no strenuous activity for two weeks.
1
Pre-Operative Ultrasound
A scrotal ultrasound confirms the diagnosis, assesses the testicle, and excludes any underlying pathology, including testicular tumour.
2
Day Surgery
The procedure is performed through a small scrotal incision under general anaesthesia. The hydrocele sac is managed using the most appropriate technique for your anatomy.
3
Recovery
Scrotal swelling and bruising are expected for 1–2 weeks. Supportive underwear is advised, with no strenuous activity for two weeks.
4
Outcome Monitoring
A post-operative review confirms healing and resolution of the hydrocele. Recurrence rates after formal repair are low.
Our Approach
