When a testicle rotates and twists the spermatic cord that allows blood to flow to the scrotum, this is known as testicular torsion. The sudden loss of blood flow causes pain and swelling. While this condition can occur in males of any age, it is most common in young men between the ages of 12 and 18.
In some cases, men and boys who experience this condition have an inherited (passed down in families) gene that causes one or both of their testicles to freely rotate within the scrotum. Other potential causes of testicular torsion can include:
- Being exposed to very cold temperatures
- Minor injury to the testicles
- Rapid growth and development of the testicle during puberty
- Vigorous physical activity
Signs and symptoms of testicular torsion may include:
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Needing to urinate more frequently than usual
- Pain in the abdomen
- Severe, sudden pain in the scrotum (loose bag of skin behind the penis that holds the testicles)
- Swelling of the scrotum
Treatments
Surgery
Your urologist may recommend you undergo surgery to untwist the spermatic cord. Your individual circumstances and how long your testicle has been twisted will determine if your testicle can be saved.
Tests
Physical Exam
Your urologist will conduct a comprehensive physical exam – including gathering a complete health history – to determine the cause of your testicular torsion. As part of this exam, your specialist may perform a basic reflex test of your thigh, which should cause your testicle to contract.
Urine Test
Your urologist may order a urine test to check for signs of infection.
Ultrasound
Your urologist may order an ultrasound imaging scan to check the blood flow to your scrotum and surrounding area.
Why Choose UHealth?
Innovative, expert urology care at the Desai Sethi Urology Institute. Our team of urology experts delivers advanced care for all urologic conditions. We use the latest research and the least invasive procedures to help you feel better and recover more quickly. Our experienced urologists design a personalized treatment plan to give you the best possible results.
Advanced research in men’s health. Our urologists are dedicated to men’s health and conduct innovative research into many conditions. Our expert team has helped develop new minimally invasive and robotic surgical procedures to treat cancers, incontinence, and more. We give you access to leading-edge treatments and clinical trials that aren’t widely available. In addition, we have established the eighth fellowship program in the nation dedicated solely to teaching physicians how to care for men’s health.
Leaders in robotic surgery treatment. We have some of the world’s most experienced robotic surgeons for urologic procedures. In fact, doctors come from all over the world to learn at our Urology Robotic Program — the #1 ranked program in South Florida. The University of Miami Health System was the first academic medical center in the world to get the da Vinci Xi robotic surgery system and has completed more than 5,000 robotic surgeries — procedures that offer less pain and scarring and a faster recovery.
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