High inguinal orchiectomy was performed as the preoperative aspiration cytology of the hydrocele fluid showed atypical cells.
However, in the case of testicular tumors, a small secondary hydrocele is present in one third of cases.
Transillumination allows the detection of fluid extending from a large hydrocele into the inguinal canal.
Returning to London early in November, he found it necessary to consult his physicians for a symptom which, neglected since 1761, had gradually become complicated with hydrocele, and was now imperatively demanding surgical aid; but the painful operations which had to be performed did not interfere with his customary cheerfulness, nor did they prevent him from paying a Christmas visit to Sheffield Place.