Hydrocele

Hydrocele Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. Our team of expert urologists, recognized as some of the best in Dubai, is committed to providing top-tier care for conditions like hydrocele. With state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centered approach, we offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for hydrocele, ensuring a quick and effective recovery. Hydrocele is a common condition that affects the male reproductive system, particularly in infants and adult men. Though it is generally not dangerous, it can cause discomfort and lead to complications if left untreated. Our specialists are equipped with the latest medical advancements to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

• About
• Causes & Symptoms
• Treatment

About Hydrocele

A hydrocele is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the sac surrounding the testicles, causing the scrotum to swell. This condition can occur on one or both sides of the scrotum and is most commonly seen in newborns, although adult men can also develop hydroceles. Hydroceles are generally painless but may cause discomfort due to the swelling. While hydroceles in infants often resolve on their own within the first year of life, in adults, they may require medical intervention, especially if the hydrocele becomes large or causes discomfort.

There are two main types of hydroceles: congenital and acquired. Congenital hydroceles occur in infants due to incomplete closure of the processus vaginalis, a structure that normally closes after birth. Acquired hydroceles, on the other hand, develop in adult men and are often linked to injury, inflammation, or infection in the scrotum.

Causes & Symptoms of Hydrocele

Causes
The causes of hydrocele can vary depending on the age and health of the individual. The most common causes include:

1. Congenital Hydrocele: In infants, hydroceles are usually congenital, caused by the failure of the processus vaginalis to close properly after birth. This allows fluid to move from the abdomen into the scrotum, leading to swelling.
2. Injury or Trauma: In adults, a hydrocele can develop after an injury to the testicles or scrotum. Trauma to this area may cause the fluid to accumulate around the testicles.
3. Infection or Inflammation: Conditions like epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) or orchitis (inflammation of the testicles) can lead to fluid buildup around the testicles, causing a hydrocele.
4. Post-Surgery Complications: Hydroceles can also develop after surgeries involving the groin or scrotum, such as hernia repairs.
5. Tumors: In rare cases, hydroceles may develop as a result of testicular tumors, which obstruct lymphatic drainage and lead to fluid accumulation.

Symptoms
The most obvious symptom of a hydrocele is painless swelling of the scrotum. While most hydroceles are not painful, some men may experience discomfort or a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. Other symptoms include:

• A soft, fluid-filled sac in the scrotum
• Gradual swelling on one or both sides of the scrotum
• A sensation of pressure or heaviness in the scrotum
• In rare cases, pain if the hydrocele becomes infected or very large

If you notice any swelling in the scrotum, it’s essential to consult a urologist for a proper diagnosis, as some symptoms of hydrocele can mimic more serious conditions like testicular cancer.

Treatment for Hydrocele

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we offer a variety of treatment options for hydrocele, depending on the size, cause, and severity of the condition.

1. Observation: In many cases, especially for infants, hydroceles may resolve on their own without treatment. If the hydrocele is small and not causing discomfort, your doctor may recommend monitoring the condition over time.
2. Aspiration: In cases where surgery is not ideal, aspiration may be used to remove the fluid from the hydrocele. This procedure involves using a needle to draw out the fluid, but it is typically a temporary solution, as the fluid may accumulate again.
3. Surgical Treatment (Hydrocelectomy): For persistent or large hydroceles, surgery may be the best option. A hydrocelectomy is a relatively simple procedure where the surgeon makes a small incision in the scrotum to drain the fluid and remove the sac that caused the fluid buildup. This procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis, meaning most patients can return home the same day.
4. Post-Treatment Care: After treatment, patients are given specific instructions for recovery, which may include rest, pain management, and instructions to wear supportive undergarments to reduce swelling. Most patients recover fully within a few weeks, with minimal risk of recurrence.