Information From Your Health Care Provider

TESTICULAR TORSION

Basic information

description

Testicular torsion is a twisting of the spermatic cord of the testicle. This may damage the testicle. Testicular torsion usually occurs on one side only. Prompt treatment is necessary to save the affected testicle. It affects males of all ages, but it is most common in ages 12 to 20.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Sudden pain in one testicle. It often starts in the night. Some prior pain may have been felt off and on, but went away on its own.
Swelling, redness, and tenderness of the scrotum.
Nausea and vomiting.
Sweating.
Fever (sometimes).

causes

In some males, the testicles are not attached firmly within the scrotum. The testicle is more movable and more likely to become twisted.
Injury or exercise may cause torsion. There may be no obvious cause.

risk increases with

Age under 20.
Undescended testicles.
Trauma to the scrotum.
Physical activity.
Previous testicular torsion .
Cold weather.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific preventive measures. Wear an athletic supporter or cup when participating in contact sports to prevent genital injury.

expected outcomes

Curable with prompt diagnosis and treatment.

possible complications

The testicle is usually injured beyond repair unless surgery is done within about 6 hours after symptoms begin. If one testicle must be removed, the remaining healthy testicle should provide enough hormones for normal male growth, sex life, and fertility. A prosthetic testicle may be inserted in some cases.
Infection in the scrotum and testicle.
Recurrent torsion.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Your health care provider will do a physical exam of the scrotum area and ask questions about your symptoms and activities. Medical tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis.
Immediate surgery is the usual treatment.
In some cases, gentle manipulation by hand may undo the twisting. This is a temporary measure and is usually followed up with surgery to stop recurrence.
Surgery is done to untangle the twisted spermatic cord. The affected testicle is attached to the inside scrotal wall, which prevents recurrence. The surgery will probably also include treatment on the unaffected testicle to prevent torsion.
After surgery, use ice packs to relieve pain and swelling. Wrap the ice in plastic. Apply it to the affected side, separating the ice from the skin with a cloth towel. Apply ice 5 to 10 minutes at a time. Repeat as often as necessary.

medications

Pain relievers are usually given.

activity

Resume your normal activities gradually after surgery.

diet

No special diet.

notify our office if

You or a family member has symptoms of testicular torsion. This is an emergency!
Signs of infection begin after surgery. These include fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, dizziness, and a general ill feeling.
Excessive bleeding occurs at the surgical site.