Surgery for Benign Scrotal Lumps
This webpage will give you information about surgery for
benign scrotal lumps. If you have any questions, you should ask
your GP or other relevant health professional.
What is a benign scrotal lump?
There are two types of benign scrotal lump:
- A hydrocele, where fluid builds up in the sheath around a
testicle.
- An epididymal cyst, where fluid collects in the epididymis (a
tube-like structure that stores sperm).
What are the benefits of surgery?
If the lump is large, surgery will ease any discomfort you may
have and make it easier for you to walk. If you want to have
children, it is best to leave an epididymal cyst alone. Surgery in
the area of the epididymis can cause scarring which reduces your
fertility.
Are there any alternatives to surgery?
The fluid can be removed using a needle but the fluid usually
builds up again. It is possible to inject a drug that stops the
fluid from coming back.
What does the operation involve?
Surgery to remove benign scrotal lumps is usually performed
under a general anaesthetic. Sometimes a spinal anaesthetic is
used. Your surgeon will make a small cut in your scrotum.
For a hydrocele, your surgeon will remove the fluid from the
sheath and either remove the sheath or stitch it together. Your
surgeon will either remove an epididymal cyst whole or they will
cut away the ‘roof’ of the cyst and drain the fluid out.
What complications can happen?
1 General complications of any operation
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Difficulty passing urine
2 Specific complications of this operation
- Infection in the wound
- Reduced fertility if the surgery is to treat an epididymal
cyst
How soon will I recover?
You should be able to go home the same day or the day after.
Most men can return to normal activities within two to four weeks.
For a hydrocele, surgery usually cures the problem. However, fluid
can build up again. There is usually more than one epididymal cyst
and surgery can only treat the larger ones. If the smaller ones get
bigger, the problem will come back.
Summary
Lumps in the scrotum are common. However, some cause problems
and can be treated by surgery.
Acknowledgements
Authors: Mr Ayan Banerjea MRCS and Mr Simon Parsons DM FRCS
(Gen. Surg.)
This document is intended for information purposes only and
should not replace advice that your relevant health professional
would give you.
Copyright © 2008 EIDO Healthcare Limited
The operation and treatment information on
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