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Questions posted in the
The Urology Forum have been answered by urologists from Henry Ford Health System and by Dr. Kevin Pho.
Question Title: HydrocelectomyForum: The Urology Forum
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Posted by mike meyer on August 08, 1999 at 13:46:37 Our son, aged 13, has a hydrocele. After visiting the urologist, he is scheduled for a hydrocelectomy. During the examination, the surgeon said he had a non-communicating type of hydrocele, and he did not find any evidence of a hernia. The surgeon said he would make an inguinal incision. Why do this incision as opposed to a scrotal incision? From what we read, an inguinal incision is indicated if a hernial repair was necessary. With no hernia, the repair would be on the tunica vaginalis, located within the scrotum. We are confused and would like clarification that we did not get from the busy urologist.
Posted by HFHS M.D.-BE on August 11, 1999 at 16:07:30
= Dear Mike, What you have read about the two types of incisions is correct. In children, a hydrocele is often associated with a hernia. The presence of a hernia is not always obvious on physical examination, nor is it always easy to elucidate whether a hydrocele is communicating or not. History is also important. For instance, if a hydrocele changes in size at different times of the day, or if it always stays the same, would indicate the possibility of a communication in the former. I suspect your urologist is taking the inguinal approach to be sure that if a hernia is present, he would fix it. This would be the more definitive way to repair. I strongly recommend that you discuss this with your urologist before going ahead with the surgery. This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653-6568). Sincerely,
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