Torsio Testis: Symptoms And Causes

Torsio testis is a disorder that occurs when the spermatic cord, which holds the testicles in the scrotum, twists. This disrupts the blood supply to the testicles and the surrounding tissues.

The testicles are glands that produce semen. They are egg-shaped and placed in the scrotum.

The blood supply to the testicles comes from blood vessels in the testicles, which run through the vas deferens. The blood then flows back through other blood vessels, which follow the same path but in the opposite direction.

The torsio testis blocks these blood vessels,  leading to a lack of blood flow in the testicles,  which can result in having to have them removed if left on for a long time.

Causes of torsio testis

Torsio testis can occur at any age. It can even occur in older men. However, it is most common during puberty or during the neonatal period. Some men are more likely to suffer from torsio testis due to defects in the connective tissues of the scrotum. However, there is no clear cause.

This condition  can occur after an injury to the abdomen,  which produces a lot of inflammation. In addition, it can occur after performing energetic exercise. In some cases, there is an anatomical predisposition which allows the testicles to rotate freely in the scrotum. It may also be because the spermatic cord is longer than normal.

The symptoms of torsio testis

Pain is the primary symptom. It is characterized by being sudden and violent. Although the  pain is located in the affected testicle, it  can spread to the entire abdomen. It can even reach the lower abdomen.

Other symptoms that may accompany the pain are:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• General discomfort

In some cases, the testicle may be higher up than normal or at an unusual angle. Generally,  the affected testicle is swollen and the scrotum is red and hard.

The intensity of these symptoms depends on how long the man has been struggling with this condition. Sometimes, however, torsio testis can resolve on its own and the pain gradually disappears.

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Diagnosis of torsio testis

A physician can diagnose torsio testis by analyzing the patient’s medical history and performing a physical examination. However, an ultrasound scan is the test that can confirm the diagnosis. However, it is not always necessary.

Treatment

This problem is a surgical emergency and time is of the essence. This is because the more time passes, the greater the risk of having to remove the testicle. If doctors perform the operation within the first six hours, it is likely that the testicle can be saved.

If a child complains of sudden pain in the testicles, it is advisable to seek medical attention  immediately. The treatment consists of correcting the twist, as well as subsequent fixation of the affected testicle.

In some cases where there is a lot of swelling and surgery can not be performed immediately, the twist can be corrected manually. However, doctors should still perform an operation as soon as possible.

If doctors detect the condition early and treat it immediately, the testicle may still function properly. The chances of the testicle having to be removed increase if the blood flow is disturbed for more than six hours. Sometimes, however, the testicle may lose its ability to function.