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What is torsion of the testis?
The spermatic cord, which is made up of the vas deferens, nerves and blood vessels, attaches the testes to the body. Torsion of the testis occurs when the testis twist or rotate in the scrotum around the spermatic cord, blocking blood flow to the testis. This causes pain and swelling.
Testicular torsion, which normally affects teenagers or young adults, happens when there are structural problems that make it easier for the testis to twist. Testicular torsion can be triggered by hard, physical activity and can happen in one or both testis.
Sometimes, torsion of the testis is confused with an infection. A diagnosis of an infection should NOT be made unless torsion of the testis is ruled out.
How does torsion of the testis affect sperm production?
The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the testis, causing damage to the tubes that produce sperm. If the blood supply is interrupted, even for a short period of time, the testis does not recover and stops producing sperm.
How is torsion of the testis treated?
This condition is a medical emergency and immediate surgery is recommended to not only relieve the pain, but also to ‘save’ the testis. It is also usual to fix the other testis during surgery to prevent torsion happening in the other testis. If this problem only occurs in a single testis, the other testis should continue to produce sperm, which would make natural conception possible.
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