Testicular Torsion & Treatment

Testicular torsion occurs as a result of a twisting of the spermatic cord (VAS DEFERENS, nerves and blood vessels) which supplies each testicle, threatening damage to the affected testicle and causing intense pain. Testicular torsion usually occurs on one side only and generally the cause is unclear although it may result from injury such as that which may be sustained from playing vigorous sports. There is sudden, often severe pain followed by a possible rise in temperature, sweating, accelerated heartbeat, nausea and vomiting. This is an emergency condition which requires immediate admittance to hospital for assessment and treatment. Except in the mildest cases, treatment is likely to involve surgery to untangle the spermatic cord and to attach the testicle to the wall to the scrotum to prevent a recurrence. If treatment is delayed, the testicle may be irreparably damaged due to the interruption in its blood and nerve supply. If this occurs, orchidectomy-surgical removal of the testicle and spermatic cord-becomes necessary. Although unpleasant, this surgery does not affect sexual function and enjoyment or fertility