Hydrocele Repair

What is this procedure?

A hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle inside the scrotum, causing painless swelling. While hydroceles are generally harmless, they can become large and uncomfortable, or cause anxiety about their cause. Surgical repair is the definitive treatment. The most common techniques are the Jaboulay procedure (turning the fluid sac inside out so it cannot refill) or simple eversion/excision of the sac. The operation is performed through a small incision on the scrotum or groin under general or spinal anaesthesia. It is usually a day-case procedure.

Before your procedure

• Fasting: Do not eat or drink for six hours before your admission time.
• Medications: Tell the team about all blood thinners; specific instructions will be given about pausing them.
• Shaving: Do not shave the scrotal or groin area yourself.
• What to bring: Supportive, well-fitting underwear or a scrotal support, comfortable loose clothing, photo ID and insurance documents.

What happens during the procedure

A small incision (3–5 cm) is made on the scrotum or, occasionally, in the groin crease. The hydrocele sac surrounding the testicle is exposed and either everted (turned inside out) or excised, and the edges are sutured so that fluid cannot re-accumulate. The testicle is carefully examined during the procedure. Absorbable sutures are used, so there is normally nothing to remove. The procedure takes approximately 30–45 minutes.

After the procedure and recovery

• Scrotal support: Wear supportive underwear or a scrotal support for at least two weeks. This significantly reduces swelling.
• Swelling and bruising: Some swelling and bruising of the scrotum is normal for one to two weeks and can look dramatic — this is expected and will resolve. An ice pack wrapped in a cloth can be applied for 15–20 minutes a few times a day.
• Pain: Mild to moderate scrotal discomfort is normal for a week. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are usually adequate.
• Driving: Not for 24 hours after general anaesthesia and not until an emergency stop can be performed comfortably.
• Return to work: Light, desk-based work within one week. Physical work: two to three weeks.
• Activity: Avoid sport, cycling, and heavy lifting for three to four weeks.
• Sexual activity: Avoid for two to three weeks.

When to seek medical help

Contact the secretary on 22 444 444 or El Greco Medical Centre +357 22 782 000 out of hours if you experience:

• Fever above 38 °C
• Rapidly increasing scrotal swelling suggesting haematoma (blood collection)
• Severe pain not controlled by prescribed analgesia
• Signs of wound infection: redness, warmth, pus, or wound breakdown

Attend the nearest Accident & Emergency department if you feel acutely unwell or cannot reach us.