A hydrocele is a collection of fluid within the scrotum around the testicle and is easily diagnosed with a scrotal ultrasound.

The majority of hydroceles occur for unknown reasons. Rarely they can be associated with infection and testicular cancer and so always require investigation by a specialist.

Surgery to remove a hydrocele is performed under general anaesthetic as a day case with quick return to normal activities. If the hydrocele is soft and non-tender surgery is not required. Hydroceles can sometimes recur              after surgery although this is rare.