How to diagnose and treat hydrocele?

In modern medicine, a distinction is made between congenital and acquired forms of the disease. In the first case, the source of dropsy is a genetic predisposition and physiological characteristics of the body. The causes of the acquired phase of the disease are more diverse. Depending on the types (idiopathic, symptomatic) and the form of the disease (acute, chronic), they are a consequence of:

• inflammation, trauma, damage;
• heart failure;
• lymphatic drainage disorders;
• complications after operations on the reproductive organs.

Hydrocele is not a life-threatening disease, but it has a number of negative consequences for the body. These include suppuration, bleeding, spermatogenesis, orchitis and scrotal hematoma.

You should seek help from a urologist if you notice a swelling or redness in the groin, painful urination. There may also be thickening of the shell or displacement of the testicle back and down, problems with sexual intercourse and sperm production.

Diagnosing the disease is not difficult. During the first visit, the doctor will carry out standard procedures to determine the type of disease.

• Interview and examination of the patient.
• Patient palpation.
• Ultrasound examination.
• Transillumination of the organ with a special device (diaphanoscopy to differentiate from a hernia).

A combination of these methods will help to determine the exact diagnosis and begin the correct treatment. The main task of the specialist is not to confuse the manifestations of hydrocele with epidimitis, orchitis or testicular torsion.

There is no drug therapy for the disease. It is possible to do without surgery only if the infection or inflammatory process that provoked the tumor is suppressed with drugs.

The most effective way to combat fluid accumulation is surgery. Today, there are six main types of excisions.

• Puncture. Such an intervention is performed on an outpatient basis. After anesthesia with lidocaine solution, the skin is pierced with a thick needle and excess moisture is removed into a tray through a silicone tube. The downside of puncture is the temporary result.
• Endoscopy. A surgical device with a camera is inserted through a small incision. When using this method, the rehabilitation time is significantly reduced and is easy, without complications.
• Sclerotherapy. The principle of the operation is to pump out water from the membranes and replace it with sclerosing agents. They promote accelerated healing and prevent relapse.
• Winkelman. The essence of the method is to stitch the membranes turned inside out. This is done when removing the affected areas.
• Ross. This is a delicate procedure that requires extensive experience and professionalism. It is used for the congenital form of the disease. The peritoneal process is cut through a small incision in the groin area.
• Lord. When using this surgical intervention, the organ is not removed to the outside. It remains in the scrotum cavity. A channel is created for the outflow of fluid by cutting the water sac.

During the postoperative period, swelling may occur. This is a normal reaction of the body. It is necessary to avoid sex and physical activity for several months. To support the damaged area, wear special underwear or a suspensory. You should consult a doctor again if your temperature rises sharply or if there is redness in the groin.