Scrotal hematoma (blood collection from scrotum)

Pelvis | Urology | Scrotal hematoma (blood collection from scrotum) (Disease)


Description

The scrotum is a potential space and a significant amount of blood or fluid can accumulate in the scrotum. Scrotal skin discoloration may or may not be associated with a scrotal hematoma. It all depends on where the bleeding is originating from. There are approximately 7 distinct tissue layers between the skin and the inner scrotal compartments. If the bleeding is coming from the innermost layer then bruising might not be apparent on the skin. If the bleeding is from a more superficial layer then bruising will occur.

Causes and Risk factors

A scrotal hematoma is a known complication after a vasectomy procedure and any scrotal surgery for that matter. It occurs approximately 5% of the time after a vasectomy procedure. Scrotal hematoma is the result of inadequate hemostasis during the vasectomy procedure which results in persistent oozing or bleeding after the skin incision is closed.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Most scrotal hematomas will grow to a size until the pressure from the enlarging mass occludes or tamponades the bleeding site or a spontaneous clot forms. Depending on the size of the hematoma, resolution can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. The best recommendation for a non-enlarging hematoma is to wait it out. Warm baths and anti-inflammatories (i. e. ibuprofen) are useful to expedite the resolution of the hematoma once the bleeding has stopped. The blood is localized to the scrotal compartment and really has no risk of migrating to any other part of the body like a blood clot in a vein. Scrotal hematomas can get infected especially if attempts to remove the hematoma are made. Careful follow-up by your physician is important.

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