開放式疝氣修補術中模仿腹股溝疝氣的精索囊腫：病例報告

曾博鴻、石宏仁

彰化基督教醫院 外科部 泌尿科

Spermatic Cord Cyst Mimicking an Inguinal Hernia during Open Herniorrhaphy: A Case Report

Po-Hung Tseng, Hung-Jen Shih

Divisions of Urology, Department of Surgery, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan

Introduction

Inguinal hernia is a common surgical condition, often necessitating surgical repair due to the risk of complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation. During herniorrhaphy, surgeons may encounter unexpected findings, ranging from variations in anatomy to concomitant pathologies. Here, we present a case report of a spermatic cord cyst masquerading as an inguinal hernia, which was incidentally discovered during planned open herniorrhaphy.

Case report

A 66-year-old male with history of hypertension and left inguinal hernia status post herniorrhaphy presented with a right non-reducible inguinal mass for 1 month. Physical examination revealed a palpable mass consistent with an inguinal hernia, prompting the decision for surgical intervention. The patient underwent planned open herniorrhaphy under general anesthesia.

Intraoperatively, upon opening the external oblique aponeurosis, a cystic structure within the spermatic cord was unexpectedly found. The cyst was carefully dissected and excised entirely, and the hernia repair proceeded uneventfully. Histopathological examination confirmed the cyst to be a spermatic cord cyst.

Conclusion

This case presented highlights the importance of considering rare differential diagnoses, such as spermatic cord cysts, in patients presenting with inguinal masses. Surgeons should maintain a high index of suspicion and be prepared to adapt their surgical approach accordingly. Through meticulous intraoperative assessment and surgical skill, unexpected findings can be successfully managed, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.