Oc-102 nuck hydrocele during inguinal hernia repair in adult females. report of two cases

Abstract Aim To present both the open and laparoscopic technique when encountering a Nuck hydrocele during an inguinal hernia repair in females. Methods Two cases of incidentally encountered cysts of Nuck during elective inguinal hernia repair in females are presented. Results Hydrocele of Nuck is a type of primary idiopathic hydrocele. It can occur due to partial remaining of the physiologically obliterated Canal of Nuck. In females, cysts of Nuck are frequently clinically misdiagnosed as inguinal hernias. A 42-year-old woman was subjected to a left TAPP repair for a symptomatic inguinal bulge. Intraoperatively a cystic lesion was attached to the round ligament of the uterus. The cyst contained clear fluid and was progressively dissected from the round ligament, excised and sent for a pathological examination. A typical TAPP repair with mesh ensued. A second case of a 45-year-old woman was submitted to a laparoscopic exploration of an ultrasonographically identified cystic lesion inside the inguinal canal. Intraabdominal reduction of the cyst was not possible, so conversion to open surgery was decided. A clear-fluid cyst was then excised and a typical Lichtenstein repair was performed. Conclusions Symptomatic inguinal bulge especially in women may warrant ultrasound examination for preoperative clarification of the underlying pathology and intraoperative management. The surgeon should be aware of the existence and pathogenesis of this rare entity.