Excision of an Epididymal Cyst

An epididymal cyst is a non-cancerous (benign) growth filled with clear liquid which is found at the top end of the testis (testicle) where the spermatic cord (vas deferens) is attached. This area is known as the epididymis.

Men are most likely to develop epididymal cysts around the age of 40. Children rarely get them before they become teenagers. The exact number of people who develop epididymal cysts is unknown.

If the cyst is small and is not causing a problem you may not need treatment. You just need to keep an eye on it and seek medical advice if it gets larger or becomes painful.

Large or painful cysts can be removed surgically. The operation is a simple one and recovery is usually uneventful. The procedure is usually performed under a general anaesthetic and on a day case basis. The procedure itself takes about 30 minutes and is performed through an incision in the scrotum using absorbable stitch material.

A haematoma may occur. This is a collection of blood in your scrotum. It usually settles down by itself as the blood gets absorbed like a bruise, but in some patients (less than 1%) they need a second operation to let the bruise out. Rarely an infection may occur. If you develop a fever you should seek medical attention. An epididymal cyst may reoccur however this occurs in less than 5% of cases. If you have difficulty passing water before surgery, it is possible that the anaesthetic may cause you difficulty passing water. I will check that you are passing water well before you are discharged. However if you have problems at home you should contact me for help and advice.

It is normal to feel some pain after an operation in a sensitive area. I will use some local anaesthetic to numb the area after your operation, but the effect of this will gradually wear off over four hours. I will give you enough pain relief to take home with you, and you should take this regularly for the prescribed period of time.

After scrotal surgery you may need to take a week off work. You will usually need to wear a scrotal support or jock strap during the day for one week. You will need to keep the wound dry for one day. After this you will be able to shower as normal. During your recovery phase at home you should not need any other special care. However as a precaution I advise no heavy lifting for two weeks.

I will write to both you and your GP confirming your follow up arrangements after your epididymal cyst excision. The cost of the post-operative appointment is included in your initial surgical fee. If you have any questions concerning your care after your surgery please contact my rooms on 07 3883 4431.