Can testicular torsion fix itself?
Testicular torsion almost always needs surgery to fix. In rare cases, the doctor might be able to untwist the spermatic cord by pushing on the scrotum, but most guys will still need surgery to attach both testicles to the scrotum to prevent torsion from happening in the future.
What is the cause of testicular torsion?
Causes of testicular torsion Testicular torsion happens if the testicle rotates on the cord that runs upward from the testicle into the abdomen. The rotation twists the spermatic cord and reduces blood flow. If the testicle rotates several times, blood flow can be entirely blocked, causing damage more quickly.
Is testicular torsion life threatening?
Testicular torsion is a medical emergency. Since all blood for the testicle comes through the spermatic cord, the blood supply is cut off with a twist. The testicle will shrink (“atrophy”) if the blood supply isn’t restored within 6 hours. With no blood, the testicle could die (or “infarct”).
How do you know if you have a twisted testicle?
Signs and symptoms of testicular torsion include:
- Sudden, severe pain in the scrotum — the loose bag of skin under your penis that contains the testicles.
- Swelling of the scrotum.
- Abdominal pain.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- A testicle that’s positioned higher than normal or at an unusual angle.
- Frequent urination.
- Fever.
What happens if testicular torsion is untreated?
Testicular torsion causes sudden pain and swelling in the scrotum or lower abdomen. This is an emergency situation — if left untreated, the condition can lead to a permanently damaged or dead testicle which must then be removed.
How long does testicular torsion last?
The amount of twisting can be anywhere from 180-720 degrees. The degree of twisting affects how quickly a testicle gets damaged. As a general rule, within about 4 to 6 hours, the testicle can be saved 90% of the time. After 12 hours, this drops to 50%; after 24 hours, the testicle can be saved only 10% of the time.
What happens if you leave a dead testicle?
This is an emergency situation — if left untreated, the condition can lead to a permanently damaged or dead testicle which must then be removed. Testicular torsion is most common in teenage and newborn boys but can occur at any age.