Epididymal Cysts

What Are Epididymal Cysts ?

Epididymal cysts are fluid filled sacs that develop in the Epididymis (where sperm from the testis collect before moving along the vas). They occur for a number of reasons but are always benign and generally cause mild discomfort only. They are not known to be associated with cancer.

Anatomy of scrotal layer with names

How Are They Diagnosed?

Epididymal Cysts may be identified as scrotal lumps, found on physical examination by a physician. They may also be discovered by self-inspection of the scrotum and testicles.

They are usually painless, located at the head of the epididymis (just above the testicle) and can be clearly felt separately to the testicle.  If uncertainty exists, an ultrasound of the scrotum can confirm the diagnosis.  A lump WITHIN the testicle itself is much more concerning as it could represent testicular cancer – if you feel a lump within the testicle please see your GP or urologist. 

How are Epididymal Cysts Treated ?

Epididymal cyst removal or excision is a procedure to remove these cysts from the scrotum. An alternative to open surgery is to drain the fluid with a needle under ultrasound guidance. Both procedures are effective in the short term, but the cysts are much more likely to come back after needle drainage.

Removal of the cysts is performed under a general anaesthetic. 

The surgeon makes an incision in the area, removes the cyst, and closes the opening in the Epididymis and then the skin with absorbable stitches. This is a fairly quick procedure and most patients are able to go home after a few hours of recovery in the hospital. Rest, antibiotics, and pain medication are usually recommended once the patient is discharged. Full recovery may take 7 to 10 days. Some patients may not be candidates for surgery.  Smokers and overweight patients are at a higher risk.  Similarly, men with blood pressure, heart, or lung problems should check with their doctors before pursuing the removal under general anaesthetic.

Small cysts are best left alone.  Only when the cysts are causing discomfort and are enlarging in size should surgery be considered. It is important to remember that in some situations pain may persist even after removal of the cyst as there may be other conditions in the scrotum causing the pain.  

Risks

  • General Anaesthetic 

You may feel normal soon after you wake, but you will be drowsy and your reactions sluggish for twenty four to forty eight hours.
  • Bleeding 

There is a small risk of bleeding during the operation.
  • Pain 

Take pain-killers as necessary if you experience any pain or discomfort in your testicle following the operation.
  • Infection 

If you notice increased pain, swelling, heat or redness around your wound, a discharge (pus), or if you develop a temperature, you should visit your GP immediately as infection may be present, which may require antibiotics.
  • Swelling and bruising 

You may find that the area around the operation site appears swollen and slightly bruised This should settle after1to 2 weeks.
  • Failure to improve symptoms or pain 

  • Recurrence of (or new) cysts at a later date on either side 


Potential Complications

This is when problems occur during or after the operation. Complications are uncommon but include an unexpected reaction to the anaesthetic, infection, excessive bleeding or developing a blood clot, usually in a vein in the leg (deep vein thrombosis, DVT).

Specific complications of epididymal cyst surgery are very uncommon, but include:

  • Bleeding inside your scrotum (haematoma) – 

you may need further surgery to stop the bleeding and drain the area
  • Damage to spermatic cord – 

this can lead to the testicle shrinking and cause fertility problems. 
  • Recurrence – 

the epididymal cysts or the spermatoceles may come back

Click Here for postoperative instructions after excision of epididymal cysts