Hydrocele

In medical terms, hydrocele refers to a fluid buildup between the layers of the testicular membrane. This condition affects the male reproductive system and is most commonly seen in boys aged 12–16. However, men aged 35 and older are also frequently affected. As the condition progresses, patients experience an increase in the volume and size of the scrotum, pain, and a feeling of heaviness. Productivity decreases, emotional well-being is disrupted, and difficulties arise in intimate relationships.

At the “New Life” clinic, we provide professional assistance in diagnosing and treating this condition. Our goal is to minimize the risk of complications and the development of severe forms and stages of the disease. To achieve this, we perform comprehensive diagnostic examinations of all reproductive organs and, in cases of suspected hydrocele, prescribe laboratory tests and instrumental diagnostic methods.

Comprehensive diagnostics can be completed in the specialized department of our “New Life” clinic, where highly qualified doctors with scientific degrees in urology also offer expert consultations.

The presence of hydrocele significantly impacts quality of life, reducing productivity and overall happiness. As the condition progresses, it causes pain in the groin and issues with urination. Additionally, hydrocele can provoke secondary pathologies and lead to further deterioration of the patient’s health. Common complications of this condition include:

• Accumulation of up to 200 ml of fluid in the enlarged hydrocele. In some cases, up to 1 liter of exudate has been removed from an enlarged scrotum.
• Impaired spermatogenesis, which may lead to infertility at an early age.
• Testicular atrophy, which without timely treatment can cause sexual dysfunction and an inability to conceive.
• Formation of hernias, including inguinal and scrotal-inguinal hernias.

Moreover, hydrocele can create favorable conditions for the development of abscesses, leading to inflammatory processes. Even in the early stages, hydrocele results in impaired microcirculation of blood and lymph in the testicle, disrupting the overall physiology of the reproductive system.

Considering the potential complications, our urologists recommend visiting the “New Life” clinic for timely diagnostics and treatment to either confirm the absence of the condition or address it effectively.

Patients often do not immediately recognize the presence of hydrocele, particularly if they have undergone prior surgeries or sustained injuries in the groin area. Hydrocele may also appear as a secondary condition due to dysfunction in the lymph nodes of the groin.

Other causes of hydrocele may include:

• Tumors, both benign and malignant;
• Consequences of groin injuries such as strains, bruises, and hematomas;
• Varicocele;
• Congestion in the pelvic area;
• Past infections of the genitourinary system.

Contributing factors to testicular hydrocele may include cardiovascular disorders, excessive physical exertion, and frequent groin hypothermia.

It is important to note that hydrocele symptoms may resemble those of other conditions affecting the reproductive or urinary systems. To ensure an accurate diagnosis, the urologist at the “New Life” clinic prescribes a series of examinations, including:

• General urinalysis;
• Coagulogram;
• Biochemical blood analysis;
• General blood analysis.

For differential diagnostics, instrumental methods such as pelvic ultrasound, X-ray, laser diagnostics, and other modern procedures may also be used.

During the clinical urological examination, doctors focus on identifying characteristic symptoms:

1. Enlarged testicular volume;
2. Tightness and increased scrotal size;
3. A feeling of heaviness in the groin;
4. Fluctuation during palpation;
5. Aching pain in the groin.

As fluid accumulation increases, discomfort and pain intensify. Patients may also experience fever, general weakness, and fatigue. In adults, sexual dysfunction and scrotal swelling often develop.

Hydrocele can vary in form, type, and stage. Depending on its origin, hydrocele is classified as either congenital or acquired. Based on its etiology, hydrocele is further divided into the following types:

• Inflammatory;
• Lymphostatic;
• Post-traumatic;
• Iatrogenic;
• Postoperative.

If the disease develops suddenly, it is classified as an acute form. Prolonged progression of the condition indicates a chronic form of the disease.

Conservative treatments are largely ineffective and are only prescribed for children or in cases with minimal fluid accumulation. In all other situations, surgical removal of hydrocele is performed.

At the “New Life” clinic, such procedures are carried out using sedation, local anesthesia, and are safe, quick, and involve minimal recovery time.