What is a Hydrocele?
A Hydrocele is an excess of fluid in the sac within the scrotum. Hydroceles occur in boys. They are caused by an opening between the abdomen and the scrotum. You may notice that the hydrocele swelling decreases when he is resting or lying down. When he gets more active or cries, the hydrocele gets larger. These are normal changes with a hydrocele.
Hydroceles are generally not painful. If your child appears to be having pain or discomfort, this may indicate that a hernia is also present. Please call our office to reevaluate your child.
What Can I Expect from Surgery?
Most hydroceles shrink over several months as the body absorbs the fluid. If the hydrocele is still present at one year of age, surgery is planned. The fluid is drained and the opening into the abdomen is closed.
The operation is done on an outpatient basis. This means your child is brought to the hospital on the day of surgery and then goes home a few hours after he recovers. No lab work is needed unless there are other medical problems.
Plan on a total of 3-5 days off work including the surgical day. This will allow for 2 quiet days after the operation.
Important Notes:
Bring for your son:
Bring for Yourself:
It is best, when possible, to make arrangements for siblings to stay at home on the day of surgery, in order for you to participate fully in your childs care.
Care of the Incision:
There will be an incision in the inguinal skin crease. Steristrips may be applied. A clear plastic or gauze dressing will cover. If it is a clear plastic dressing, carefully remove it after 5 days. Change the gauze dressing if it becomes wet or soiled. Remove the gauze dressing in 3 days. Expect bruising and swelling for 3-5 days. No sutures go through the skin layer, so none are to be removed.
Feeding Your Child After Surgery:
Your child may have a regular diet for age, however his/her appetite may not be normal for 24-36 hours. This is normal. If so, give frequent small amounts of clear liquids (juice, soda, sugar water).
Constipation is common after surgery. Anesthesia and pain medicine (Roxicet) can contribute to constipation. Give your child plenty of clear liquids after surgery. Call the office if you child goes longer than 48 hours without a bowel movement.
Bathing Instructions:
Keep the diaper area clean and dry. DO NOT rub or pull. There will be some swelling and bruising around the scrotum for at least 3-5 days. Only a sponge bath or shower for 5 days.
Activity:
Daycare/School:
Your child must be closely supervised to avoid accidents for 14 days. He may return to school 48-72 hours after surgery. No physical education classes for 4 weeks.
Call 410-328-5730 for any questions or if there is:
*If you have any questions about the surgery, please call: the nurse practitioner or surgeon caring for your child: 410-328-5730.
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