Testicular Torsion

What is testicular torsion?

Torsion of the testicle causes the spermatic cord in the testicle to twist and stop blood flow to the testicle, resulting in pain, swelling, nausea, vomiting and lightheadedness. Testicular torsion is also known as testicular ischemia, testicular twisting, or torsion of the testis. The most common cause of testicular torsion is injury, but it may also arise without apparent cause. Testicular torsion is most common in boys and young adults.

Testicular torsion develops when the spermatic cord within a testicle becomes twisted around the blood vessels in the testicle and scrotum, thereby cutting off the blood supply and potentially causing irreversible damage. Testicular torsion is an emergency that requires immediate medical care.

The symptoms of testicular torsion occur rapidly, although the condition varies among individuals. Some boys and men will have swelling and pain, while others will also have light-headedness, nausea with or without vomiting, or blood in the semen. Regardless of the severity of symptoms, all cases pose a risk of permanent damage.

Fortunately, testicular torsion can generally be treated successfully if done so within six hours of symptom onset. Manual or surgical correction of the problem can be performed, usually without further complications if rapid treatment has been obtained.

Testicular torsion is a serious condition. Seek immediate medical care or (call 911) for symptoms such as persistent vomiting; rapid, severe pain in one testicle; or swelling of one side of the scrotum.

Seek prompt medical care if you have brief recurrent episodes of testicular discomfort or persistent, mild pain in the testicle.