Page 1 - Scrotal Surgery - Discharge Instructions
P. 1

Urological Health

                                 Scrotal surgery

                                 Discharge instructions






        An operation was performed on the testicles or their supporting structures.






              n operation has been performed on the testicles     A scrotal support or snug underwear will usually
        Aor their supporting structures. The scrotum is the       increase comfort. There may be variable bruising
        sac of skin containing the testicles where sperm and      or swelling of the scrotum appearing over the first
        male hormones are produced. Sperm matures and is          few days. Swelling can be minimized, if necessary,
        stored in the epididymis. The spermatic cord contains     by applying a cold pack to the scrotum for about
        the testicular blood vessels and the vas deferens         20 minutes three or four times daily for several days.
        through which sperm is conducted at the time of           Bruising and swelling should gradually disappear over
        ejaculation.                                              a few weeks. The incision should slowly fade to a
                                                                  fine scar.

                                                                  Hygiene


                                         testicular               You may shower the day after your surgery. Bathing in
                                         veins                    clean water is also possible, unless a drain has been
                                                                  left in the scrotum, in which case your doctor will
                                                                  advise you of any precautions. Swimming and soaking
                                         testicular               in hot tubs should be avoided until your sutures have
                                         artery                   completely dissolved.


                                         epididymis               Bowel function

                                         vas                      Your normal bowel pattern should return when you
                                         deferens                 resume your usual diet and activity.  Avoid straining
                                                                  to have a bowel movement. A non-prescription stool
                                                                  softener, like docusate sodium (e.g. Colace™), is
                                         testis                   often helpful in this regard.

                                         tunica                   Activity
                                         vaginalis
                                                                  Gradually resume your usual activities. Avoid straining
                                                                  or heavy lifting (over 10 kg or 20 lbs.) for about two
        Wound care                                                weeks from the date of surgery as these activities can
                                                                  increase swelling and the risk of bleeding.
        Your incision has been closed with dissolving stitches.
        Any visible knots should fall off when the incision has   Sexual activity can be resumed when you are
        healed adequately. Until then, the incision should be     comfortable.
        protected and kept clean.



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