This procedure involves the surgical removal of an epididymal cyst—a fluid-filled sac arising from the epididymis, located adjacent to the testicle. It is typically performed under general anaesthetic as a day case or with a short overnight stay, depending on the size and complexity of the cyst.
A scrotal incision is made to expose the epididymis. The cyst is carefully dissected away from surrounding structures and excised, with care taken to preserve the testicle and vas deferens.
Indications include:
Symptomatic epididymal cysts causing discomfort, pain, or pressure
Rapidly enlarging or very large cysts
Cosmetic concerns or anxiety regarding malignancy
Recurrent cysts unresponsive to conservative management
Postoperative care includes:
Wearing supportive scrotal underwear for 7–10 days to reduce swelling and discomfort
Wound care and monitoring for haematoma or infection
Avoiding strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 2–3 weeks
Follow-up review at approximately 6 weeks
Epididymal cyst excision is generally a safe and effective procedure. However, patients should be aware of the small risk of chronic scrotal pain or impaired fertility, because the epididymal anatomy can be disrupted during surgery.
