Epididymal surgery at Cambridge Hospital

Is epididymal surgery right for me?

Epididymal cysts are one of the most common scrotal issues and you don't usually need treatment for them.

However if the cyst grows in size and begins to swell or cause testicular pain, your consultant may recommend you have it removed.

What happens during epididymal surgery?

Epididymal cyst removal is usually done under general anaesthetic. Spinal or local anaesthetic with sedation may also be used. The procedure takes around 15–20 minutes.

During the procedure

1. Your surgeon will make a small cut above your scrotum
2. They'll locate and remove the cyst from any surrounding tissue
3. Finally, they'll close the cut with dissolvable stitches, and the cyst may be sent to a lab for analysis.

Recovery from epididymal surgery

Epididymal surgery is usually done as a day case, so you'll be able to go home on the day of your procedure.

You won't be able to drive, so make sure you arrange for someone to take you home.

Managing your recovery at home

You should get plenty of rest for the first 24 hours, but then it’s important to stay active to avoid blood clots. You should also follow the instructions from our healthcare team on medication or special compression stockings.

You may feel some discomfort in the first few days. Here are a few things you can do to make sure you recover well:

• Keep your wound clean and dry for the first 24 hours – after that time you can remove the dressing and have a short bath or shower
• Don't have long baths or showers until the wound heals
• Take any pain relief medication we've prescribed
• Wear supportive underpants or an athletic support for the first 7 days
• Avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 10–14 days
• Avoid sexual activity for the first 10 days or until you feel comfortable.
  

Discuss any return to work with your consultant.

Complications of epididymal surgery

Most people make a good recovery after epididymal surgery. As with any surgical procedure there could be complications. Specific complications of epididymal surgery include:

• swelling
• drainage from the surgical wound
• infection
• damage to the epididymis
• reoccurrence of the cyst.

The healthcare team will do their best to minimise any risks. Make sure you discuss any concerns you have about these complications with your consultant.