Excision of hydrocele; bilateral
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Excision of Hydrocele; Bilateral
Common name(s): Hydrocele surgery, Hydrocelectomy
Technical/medical terms: Excision of hydrocele, Bilateral hydrocelectomy
Summary
In hydrocele surgery, excess fluid collected around the testicles is surgically removed from both sides of the scrotum. The procedure alleviates swelling, discomfort, and potential complications arising from untreated hydroceles.
Purpose
Addresses medical condition: Hydrocele (fluid accumulation around the testicles)
Goals: Relieve pain, reduce swelling, prevent further complications or infections, and restore normal scrotal anatomy.
Indications
- Persistent or painful scrotal swelling
- Discomfort or difficulty with daily activities
- Risk of infection or other complications from untreated hydrocele
- Failure of less-invasive treatments
Preparation
- Fasting for at least 6 hours before surgery
- Stopping certain medications as advised by the doctor
- Pre-operative blood tests and a scrotal ultrasound to assess the extent of the hydrocele
Procedure Description
- General or regional anesthesia is administered.
- The surgeon makes an incision in the scrotum.
- Excess fluid is drained, and the hydrocele sac is excised.
- The incision is closed with sutures.
- A dressing is applied to protect the area.
Tools: Scalpel, sutures, surgical scissors, drainage materials
Anesthesia: General or regional anesthesia
Duration
Typically, the procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
Setting
The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.
Personnel
- Surgeon
- Surgical nurse
- Anesthesiologist
- Surgical technologist
Risks and Complications
- Infection at the incision site
- Scrotal hematoma (bleeding inside the scrotum)
- Recurrence of hydrocele
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia
- Scarring
Benefits
- Relief from pain and discomfort
- Reduction in swelling
- Lowered risk of infection or other complications
- Return to normal activities and improved quality of life
Recovery
- Post-procedure care includes pain management and rest.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for a few weeks.
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Expected recovery time: About 2-4 weeks.
Alternatives
- Aspiration: temporary fluid removal with a needle, usually with the potential for recurrence.
- Watchful waiting: monitoring the hydrocele without immediate intervention, appropriate if symptoms are mild and not bothersome.
Patient Experience
During the procedure: The patient will be under anesthesia and should not feel pain.
After the procedure: Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising are normal. Pain can be managed with prescribed medication. Patients are advised to wear supportive underwear to alleviate discomfort.