A neonate is brought with an inguinal swelling which is smooth, transparent, fluctuating swelling, which is prolonged into the inguinal canal, and receives an impulse when the child coughs or struggles. Congenital hydrocele is diagnosed after examination. What is the suggested treatment modality in this case?

Congenital hydrocele results from a persistence of processus vaginalis. As the testis descends from its retroperitoneal position to beyond the internal ring, it carries with an anteromedial diveiculum of peritoneum (the processus vaginalis). The process of obliteration of the processus vaginalis begins at 32 weeks gestation and may continue for the first two years of life. A narrowly patent processus vaginalis which allows the passage of peritoneal fluid results in a communicating hydrocele. Congenital hydrocele resolve spontaneously upon completion of the process of obliteration of the processus vaginalis. Occasionally, the fluid collection may persist after closure of the processus vaginalis resulting in a hydrocele of cord (hydrocele of canal of Nuck in females) or non communicating hydrocele. The treatment of congenital hydrocoele is same as congenital hernia. Herniotomy through an inguinal approach. Ref: Fundamentals of Surgical Practice edited by Andrew N. Kingsnoh, Aljafri A. Majid, 2006, Page 514; Bedside Clinics In Surgery By M.L. Saha, 2006, Page 468; Fundamentals of Operative Surgery by Vipul Yagnik, 2007, Page 35