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Dr. Reynolds
The testicles are attached to the spermatic cord and hang within the scrotum. It's possible for this cord to become twisted around a testicle, cutting off the testicle's blood supply. This is a condition known as testicular torsion. Dr. Jerman, what can you tell us about this condition?
Dr. Jerman
Well, Dr. Reynolds, symptoms of testicular torsion include:
- Sudden and severe pain
- Enlargement of the affected testicle
- Tenderness, and
- Swelling
This condition, which occurs most often in young men between the ages of 12 and 18, can result from an injury to the testicles or from strenuous activity. In other cases, testicular torsion can occur without any apparent cause.
Testicular torsion is an emergency condition, requiring immediate treatment. The treatment usually includes surgery to correct the problem. It's possible to save the testicle if the condition is diagnosed and corrected immediately. However, if the blood supply to the testicle is cut off for over six hours, the testicle can become permanently damaged and may need to be removed.