Health Encyclopedia

Testicular torsion repair

Definition

Testicular torsion repair is surgery to untangle the twisted spermatic cord that is causing testicular torsion.

Description

Testicular torsion is a problem most often encountered by boys at early puberty or just after birth. However, it can occur at any age. Approximately 1 in 4,000 males are affected.

Torsion occurs when the testicle turns or spins, blocking the flow of blood into the testicle. Prolonged blockage of blood flow causes tissue death in the testicle. It results in pain, swelling, and possible testicular damage. If treatment is not received within 6 - 8 hours, the entire testicle may die and need to be removed.

Testicular torsion repair surgery is usually done under general anesthesia (asleep, no pain). A cut is made in the scrotum, and the testicle is uncoiled. Stitches are used to secure the testicle to the inside of the scrotum. The other unaffected testicle is also secured, because it is at increased risk for torsion at a later date.

Indications

Testicular torsion is considered an emergency. Surgery is usually required. It should be performed within 4 - 6 hours after symptoms begin to save the testicle.

Risks

Risks for any anesthesia are:

Problems breathing
Reactions to medications

Risks for any surgery are:

Bleeding
Infection

Call your doctor if you have:

A general ill feeling
Excessive bleeding at the surgical site
Signs of infection, including fever, chills, muscle aches, and headache

Expectations after surgery

If surgery is performed in time, complete recovery is expected. If one testicle has to be removed, the remaining healthy testicle should provide enough hormones for normal male maturation, sex life, and fertility.

Convalescence

After surgery, ice packs will relieve pain and swelling. You may wear a scrotal support for a week after surgery. Resume normal activity gradually.

References

Ringdahl E. Testicular torsion. Am Fam Physician. 2006;74:1739-1743.

Schneck FX, Bellinger MF. Abnormalities of the Testes and Scrotum and their Surgical Management. In: Wein AJ. Wein: Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 127.

Review Date:5/22/2008
Reviewed By:Scott M. Gilbert, MD, Department of Urology, Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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