Study of Testicular Geometry and Resistivity Indices Before and After Hydrocelectomy in Unilateral Idiopathic Hydrocele

Abstract

Background: Idiopathic Hydrocele is the most prevalent cause of benign painless scrotal swelling in adult male, associated discomfort; cosmetic appearance and patients wish are the only designation for surgery. But little is kenned about its effect on testis, intratesticular blood ow and spermatogenesis. Aim and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine whether hydrocele has any effect on the testicular volume and vascular resistance. Material and Methods: In this prospective observational study Twenty-four patient with a mean age of 39.4 years who had a unilateral idiopathic hydrocele and underwent unilateral hydrocelectomy were included. Scrotal gray -scale sonography and colour Doppler scan were done in all patients to determine Testicular size, Resistive (RI) and Pulsatility Indexes (PI) of the intratesticular arteries on the involved and uninvolved sides before and after hydrocelectomy. Results:As compared to the normal side (p = 0.777), the difference in the Testicular volume before and after surgery on the side of hydrocelectomy was statistically signicant (24.69% decrease) (p < 0.01). The mean decrease in RI (21.27 %) and PI (41.82 %) values of intratesticular arteries on the affected side after hydrocelectomy were statistically signicant (p < 0.01), while no statistically signicant difference in RI and PI values were detected on the normal side (p = 0.964 for RI, p = 0.499 for PI). Conclusion:Idiopathic hydrocele causes impedance to venous and lymphatic outow due to increased hydrostatic pressure leading to increased vascular resistance and testicular volume.

Keywords

• Testicular Volume
• Resistive Index
• Pulsatility Index
• Idiopathic Hydrocele
• colour Doppler scan