Ambulatory hydrocele surgery: a review of 50 cases.

In a prospective study, 50 cases of hydrocele were treated by ambulatory surgery. Lord's technique was performed under local anaesthesia. A modified simple scrotal dressing was used to facilitate ambulation. In one case (2%), haematoma was reported. There were no wound infections. Patients tolerated the procedure well and ambulation was excellent in all cases. On the grounds of safety and cost effectiveness, most hydrocele repair procedures should be performed on ambulant patients.