A hydrocele is a type of swelling in the scrotum that occurs when fluid collects in the thin sheath surrounding a testicle. Hydrocele is common in newborns and usually disappears without treatment by age 1. Older boys and adult men can develop a hydrocele due to inflammation or injury within the scrotum.

What is a hydrocele?

A hydrocele is when fluid fills a male’s scrotum, causing it to swell. It is not a major health issue but it can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Hydroceles are more common in male infants than adults, and there are treatments to solve the problem.

How common is a hydrocele?

About 10% of newborn male infants have a hydrocele, which often clears up without any particular treatment within the first year of life. Hydroceles occur in only about 1% of adult men, and will often disappear on their own.

Who is at risk of a hydrocele?

Although the condition is much more common in baby boys, it may also occur in adolescent and adult men.

What are the types of hydrocele?

There are two: communicating hydrocele and non-communicating hydrocele.

  Communicating hydrocele: This is a type of hydrocele that has contact (communication) with the fluids of the abdominal cavity. A communicating hydrocele is caused by the failure of the processus vaginalis (the thin membrane that extends through the inguinal canal and extends into the scrotum). If this membrane remains open, there is a potential for both a hernia and a hydrocele to develop. The child’s scrotum will appear swollen or large and may change in size throughout the day.

  Non-communicating hydrocele: In this type, the inguinal canal did close, but there is still extra fluid around the testicle in the scrotum. This condition might be present at birth or might develop years later for no obvious reason. A non-communicating hydrocele usually remains the same size or has very slow growth.

How is a hydrocele diagnosed? What tests are done?

A healthcare provider can diagnose a hydrocele in a child or adult through a combination of tests and observations, including:

  Physical exam – This may include testing to see how the bulge in the groin area changes under pressure or when the patient is asked to cough and/or shining a light through the scrotum, highlighting any collection of fluid in that area.

  An imaging test such as an ultrasound.

How is a hydrocele treated? What medicines may help?

There are no medications available to treat a hydrocele.

A hydrocele usually does not need to be surgically repaired. A hydrocele typically goes away on its own within six to 12 months of age. If the hydrocele does not resolve on its own, then it needs to be surgically repaired to prevent further complications.

Can a hydrocele be prevented?

There is nothing you can do to prevent your baby from getting a hydrocele. For adolescent and adult men, the best protection against a hydrocele is to keep the testicles and scrotum free of injury. For example, if taking part in contact sports, use an athletic cup.

Although hydroceles are usually not a major health issue, you should tell your healthcare provider about any abnormality or swelling in the scrotum. Another disease or condition may be causing or mimicking the abnormality.

The outcome for a hydrocele is generally positive. Cases that need surgery have a high success rate.

Can I live a normal life with a hydrocele?

Yes. A hydrocele shouldn’t interfere with your everyday activities or reduce your quality of life.

Will a hydrocele affect fertility?

No.

What is circumcision?

Circumcision is the procedure which involves the surgical removal of the foreskin from the penis.

Who needs circumcision?

Circumcision is needed for people suffering from a tight foreskin (Phimosis), inflammation of the foreskin and glans (Balanoposthitis) & Paraphimosis (trapped foreskin which cannot be reduced back to its normal position).

What are the ways in which circumcision be done?

Circumcision, conventionally, is done by the open technique. The latest advanced technique however is Laser circumcision.

What are the advantages of Laser circumcision?

The advantages of Laser Circumcision are:

  Painless procedure

  No wounds/scars

  Bloodless

  Rapid recovery and resumption of normal activities

  Day care procedure. Same day discharge

  No need for daily dressings

Does Insurance cover Laser Circumcision?

Yes. We cover all insurances and mediclaims.

Are there any side effects of Circumcision?

Laser circumcision ensures no risk of common side effects associated with conventional circumcision.

How long does it take to recover after circumcision?

Circumcision is a day care procedure and the patient can be discharged on the same day itself.

Can Laser Circumcision be performed under local anesthesia?

Yes, laser circumcision may be performed under local, regional or general anesthesia.

Does circumcision have any adverse effect on fertility or intercourse?

No. Having a circumcision does not adversely effect either fertility or intercourse.

What is stapler circumcision, and how is it different from traditional circumcision?

Stapler circumcision is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a special device called a stapler to remove the foreskin of the penis. Unlike traditional circumcision, which involves cutting and stitching the skin, stapler circumcision uses a stapling device to remove and seal the foreskin in one step.

Is stapler circumcision safe?

Yes, stapler circumcision is generally considered safe and effective when performed by a trained and experienced healthcare professional. As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved, such as bleeding or infection, but these are rare.

How long does it take to recover from stapler circumcision?

Recovery time varies depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Generally, most people can return to their normal activities within a few days to a week after the surgery. It is recommended to avoid sexual activity for at least four to six weeks after the procedure.

Does stapler circumcision hurt?

You may experience some discomfort or mild pain after the procedure, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. The surgical site may be tender or swollen for a few days, but this typically resolves within a week.

Can stapler circumcision affect sexual function?

Studies have shown that stapler circumcision does not have a significant impact on sexual function or sensation. In fact, some men report an improvement in sexual function after the procedure due to the removal of the foreskin.