Alternative Names torsion of the testicle, torsion of the spermatic cord
Definition A man's testicle receives its blood supply through a structure called the spermatic cord. This cord can become twisted, cutting off blood to the testicle. This is known as torsion of the testicle.
What is going on in the body? In some men, the tissue surrounding the testicle is not well attached to the scrotum. This makes it easy for the testicle to become twisted around the spermatic cord. If not treated, the tissue of the testicle may die. This problem is more common at puberty. This is because the testicles grow to 5 or 6 times their previous size during this period.
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition? Symptoms of this condition often include:
What are the causes and risks of the condition? Torsion of one testicle may indicate that a man is at higher risk for the same condition on the other side. This is because the defect that makes it possible for the testicle to twist is often present on both sides. This condition can sometimes be due to testicular cancer that causes the testicle to increase dramatically in size.
What can be done to prevent the condition? In most cases, this condition cannot be prevented. If a man has torsion of one testicle and surgery is done, the other testicle is often anchored into place to prevent it from developing torsion in the future.
How is the condition diagnosed? The diagnosis of testicular torsion is based primarily on a physical examination and a man's medical history. A painful, swollen scrotum makes a doctor suspect this condition. In some cases, special x-ray tests can be helpful to make sure other conditions, such as infection, are not the cause of the symptoms.
What are the long-term effects of the condition? If the blood supply is not restored within 6 hours of torsion, permanent tissue damage is likely. The entire testicle may be destroyed. Therefore, immediate surgery is critical if this condition is present.
What are the risks to others? There are no risks to others as this condition is not contagious.
What are the treatments for the condition? Testicular torsion repair surgery is always needed to treat this condition, if it does not quickly go away on its own. To begin the operation, local anaesthesia is given in the affected area. Other pain or relaxing medication may also be given to make the man comfortable. A cut is then made in the scrotum. The testicle is brought out and the cord is untwisted. The testicle is observed to see if normal colour returns. This indicates that blood flow is returning.
Next, the other testicle is secured to the scrotum with a few stitches. This procedure is called orchidopexy and helps prevent torsion in the future. The first testicle is then re-examined to see if it is recovering properly. If it appears that permanent tissue damage has taken place, the testicle is removed. If the organ has recovered, it is secured with stitches to the scrotum as well.
What are the side effects of the treatments? The scrotum often swells significantly after surgery. Blood may collect in the scrotum following surgery. As with all surgery, there is a small risk of infection. Reaction to any analgesia is also possible.
What happens after treatment for the condition? The man should rest as much as possible after surgery. Keeping the scrotum elevated can help reduce discomfort. Analgesics and ice packs may also be prescribed to reduce pain. Rarely, the attempt to secure the testicle is unsuccessful and the testicle can twist a second time.
How is the condition monitored? After recovery from surgery, no further monitoring is generally needed. Affected men who have similar symptoms in the future should seek immediate treatment at the nearest emergency room. Quick treatment of torsion has a much higher chance of saving the affected testicle.
Author: Stuart Wolf, MD Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia Last Updated: 1/10/2001 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
