Testicular Torsion

Testicular torsion occurs when a testicle turns, twisting the spermatic tube that brings blood into the scrotum. The reduced blood flow causes sudden, severe pain and swelling.

Testicular torsion is most common in boys between ages 12 and 18, but it can occur at any age, even before birth.

Testicular torsion usually requires emergency surgery. If treated quickly, Dr Mkhize can usually save the testicle. But if blood flow has been cut off for too long, a testicle might become so severely damaged that Dr Mkhize must remove it.

Testicular Torsion Symptoms

• Sudden, severe pain in the scrotum
• Swelling of the scrotum
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• A testicle that's positioned higher than usual or at an unusual angle
• Frequent urination
• Fever
• Young boys with testicular torsion usually wake up due to scrotal pain at night.

You should always seek emergency care for sudden or severe testicle pain. Quick treatment can prevent severe damage or the loss of the testicle.

You also need to seek medical help if you've had sudden testicle pain that goes away without any treatment, such as when a testicle twists and then untwists on its own. Dr Mkhize can perform surgery to prevent the problem from happening again.