Dallas
214-456-2444
Fax: 214-456-2497
Ste F4300
Plano
469-497-2501
Fax: 469-497-2507
Ste P1100
Park Cities
469-488-7000
Fax: 469-488-7001
Ste 106
South Rockwall
214-867-7400
Fax: 214-456-2497
Ste 233
A hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac located around a testicle that causes swelling in a male’s scrotum (pouch of skin that holds the testicles).
214-456-2444
Fax: 214-456-2497
Ste F4300
469-497-2501
Fax: 469-497-2507
Ste P1100
469-488-7000
Fax: 469-488-7001
Ste 106
214-867-7400
Fax: 214-456-2497
Ste 233
A hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac that develops around a testicle, which causes swelling in the scrotum. In a healthy baby, the testicles descend (drop) from the baby's developing abdomen into the scrotum. A sac accompanies each of the testicles, which allows fluid to surround the testicles. Once the testicles are in place, each sac closes and the fluid is absorbed. A hydrocele forms when some of this fluid remains.
These are common in newborns and typically disappear on their own within the first year of life. It's possible for older boys and adult men to develop a hydrocele, usually due to inflammation or injury within the scrotum.
Hydroceles are generally smooth and do not cause pain in infants. Large or painful hydroceles may need more immediate attention. Because a hydrocele can resemble an inguinal hernia, doctors make a diagnosis based on a physical examination and a complete medical history. Transillumination can differentiate between a hydrocele and a hernia.
This surgical procedure can be performed through a small incision in the groin or by using the laparoscope (minimally invasive surgery). Depending on the age of your child, some surgeons may recommend looking for a hernia on the other side at the same time as the initial hernia surgery.