Epididymal Cysts
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Epididymal cysts are fluid-like lumps that can emerge along the epididymis (normally just above the testicle) the tube which functions to deliver sperm from the testicle. Epididymal cysts are interchangeably known as a spermatoceles. The reasons these cysts develop is unknown, but they usually develop as a result of sperm and/or other fluids accumulating at the head of the epididymis. An epididymal cyst is often preceded by either an injury to the groin area or infection (called epididymitis).Symptoms
Spermatoceles are benign, small, and utterly painless, and you can detect them by feeling a small lump on top of one your testicles. While most of spermatocles are harmless, if the cyst does grow to a large extent, it can be both a discomfort and an embarrassment. Yet these cysts are typically symptomless, and may not even be noticeable. For instance, most spermatoceles are less than half an inch in diameter. Indeed, epididymal cysts only become problematic should they go untreated and grow to up to two inches. This may lead the cyst to swell and to feel sore. As a consequence, sexual intercourse may prove to be difficult. Either way, if you find an anything abnormal develop on your testicle it is imperative to make a doctor’s appointment and get it checked out with a full diagnosis. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Diagnosis
To diagnose an epididymal cyst, a doctor will feel the scrotum to find the lump’s precise location. A light then is shined at this area to work out whether the lump is filled with fluid and not of a harder tissue. If the light does not shine through the other side, it is indicative that testicular cancer or another serious condition has developed. Although most epididymal cysts do not require treatment and eventually disappear in a few months. Yet if the cyst causes persistent pain surgery is possible; the most common procedure is spermatocelectomy.
Spermatocelectomy
During a spermatocelectomy, the scrotum is carefully opened up. Following this the cyst is skilfully removed out of the epididymis. The epididymis will then need to be sealed with stitches and treated with antibiotics to ensure against infection. Some blood may ooze out following the operation, but this should be of no concern; make sure you wash regularly in the hours following the operation.
Following surgery
Patients are advised to make sure they make regular doctor’s appointments in the year following the surgery, to ensure no problems have arisen as a result of surgery.
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