Hydrocele or testicular hydrocele is an excess of fluid in the tunica vaginalis of the testicles, varying in nature:
- blood;
- fluid formed as a result of an inflammatory process;
- transudate;
- fluid accumulated due to venous insufficiency;
- postoperative complications;
Hydrocele can be congenital or acquired.
Causes
One of the causes of hydrocele may be an imbalance between the production of fluid and its absorption in the scrotum. As a result, this fluid accumulates in excessive amounts. Congenital hydrocele occurs due to the penetration of fluid through an unclosed processus vaginalis. In this case, the hydrocele may be connected to the abdominal cavity. This type of hydrocele usually disappears by the end of the first year of life as the processus vaginalis closes.
Symptoms of Hydrocele
The primary symptom of hydrocele is an increase in the volume of the testicles, without the possibility of palpation. There may be pain in the scrotal area. A rise in temperature is also frequently recorded. The volume of accumulated fluid can vary significantly and may reach very large amounts.
Diagnosis of Hydrocele in Israel
To confirm the diagnosis of hydrocele, doctors in Israel conduct an examination of the child, starting with an inspection and palpation of the genital organs. Then, they perform transillumination – shining a light through the scrotum using a special device. If the contents of the scrotum are fluid accumulating due to hydrocele, the light is evenly diffused. If the cause of the testicular enlargement is internal organs, the scrotum does not transmit light. An ultrasound examination is also performed to rule out a hernia.
Treatment of Hydrocele in Israel
Treatment of hydrocele in Israel is only possible through surgical intervention. Two methods of performing the operation are practiced. The first method involves puncturing the hydrocele, which provides quick relief, but the fluid usually accumulates again over time. The second method is an operation to open the cavity and remove the fluid.
Prevention
Since the causes of hydrocele development can be injuries and infections, it is important to avoid dangerous situations related to testicular trauma and to carry out prevention and timely treatment of infectious diseases.