Definition:
Testicular torsion repair is surgery to untangle a spermatic cord. The spermatic cord is the thin tissue in the scrotum the testicles hang from. If it twists or turns, testicular torsion develops. This torsion (pulling and twisting) blocks blood flow to the testicle.
Alternative Names:
Description:
Most patients receive general anesthesia for testicular torsion repair surgery. This will make you unconscious and unable to feel pain. After you receive anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision (cut) in your scrotum to get to the twisted cord. The surgeon then will untangle the spermatic cord and testicle. The surgeon will use stitches to attach this testicle to the inside of your scrotum. The other testicle will be attached in the same way so that it does not twist in the future.
Why the Procedure Is Performed:
Testicular torsion is an emergency. Surgery is usually needed right away to relieve the sudden severe pain and swelling and to prevent the loss of the testicle. For the best results, it should be performed within 6 hours after symptoms begin. By 12 hours, a testicle may become damaged so badly that it has to be removed.
References:
Ringdahl E, Teague L. 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, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 127.
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