Medical Procedures
Aspiration and sclerotherapy are treatments that remove fluid from the spermatocele and seal the spermatocele sac closed from further fluid build-up, respectively. Due to a higher risk of epididymis damage, fertility problems, and further recurrences, these procedures are not recommended and not commonly used. Surgical Treatments
Surgical treatments must be thoroughly discussed with people prior to any final decisions. Different types of surgical procedures may be chosen based on the extent of risk.A short procedure called a spermatocelectomy can be performed for spermatoceles that cause irritating symptoms. This standard procedure can be performed in an outpatient setting with the use of local or general anesthesia. This procedure typically consists of removing the spermatocele and a portion of the epididymis. The risk of epididymal injury is 17.12%. This incident may happen when the spermatocele is being dissected from the head of the epididymis. Spermatocelectomy can cause complications such as hematoma, wound infection, scrotal abscess as well as recurrence. After surgery, the doctor may recommend to apply ice packs for several days to help reduce swelling. Oral pain medications can also be taken for a few days to reduce discomfort. In addition, the patient returns 2–6 weeks after to inspect any progress/complications. If received a vasectomy, then two semen samples must be collected and analyzed after 6–12 weeks post-operation and several ejaculations. The centrifuged semen samples are used to look for the absence of viable sperm in the semen. Risk of Complications
After surgical removal, it is possible that the pain will persist and recurrence can occur.
The incidence of these cysts are possibly linked to boys who are exposed to diethylstilbestrol, an estrogen medication, while in the fetus.Although the evidence and information for incidence of spermatoceles in children is lacking, there are general management guidelines for caregivers who may encounter spermatoceles in their children. Epididymal cysts are typically benign in nature. However, caregivers should take note of any discomfort and symptoms in children, including but not limited to, erythema, scrotal edema or swelling. Epididymal cysts appear in approximately 70% of boys who present as asymptomatic. The diagnosis of epididymal cysts in children can be discovered upon physical examination and eventually confirmed via ultrasound. Treatment
Small cysts as well as asymptomatic larger cysts are better left alone and carefully observed. However, treatment can be considered if the cysts are causing discomfort/pain, enlarging in size, or per patient request. There are a few different treatment options, ranging in levels of invasiveness. Medications
Certain drugs such as oral analgesics or anti-inflammatory medications can be taken by mouth to decrease spermatocele-related symptoms such as pain and/or swelling. At the moment, there is no medication that can inhibit the production of a spermatocele or cure it. Common medications recommended by doctors are acetaminophen (Tylenol) that can treat pain. To treat the inflammation and pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are recommended such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and others. Antibiotics may also be prescribed in cases where risk of infection and discomfort is indicated.