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Reduction Torsion
What is
Reduction Torsion?
Testicular torsion is the twisting of the
spermatic cord, which cuts off the blood supply
to the testicle and surrounding structures
within the scrotum. Reduction torsion is a
procedure that corrects this condition.
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Effects
of Reduction Torsion
If the
condition is diagnosed quickly and immediately
corrected, the testicle may continue to function
properly.
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Candidates for Reduction Torsion
Testicular torsion affects males only.
Testicular torsion most often is observed in
males younger than 30 years, with most aged
12-18 years. The peak age is 14 years, although
a smaller peak also occurs during the first year
of life.
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Your Consultation
There are only a few guidelines
for this procedure such as not eating or
drinking before undergoing the surgery. Other
guidelines are dependent on the physician or the
facility where Reduction Torsion will be
performed. Pre-procedure instructions or
guidelines should be provided by the physician.
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The
Reduction Torsion Procedure
A
simple surgery will correct and prevent
testicular torsion. It can be done in an
emergency situation after determination that the
testicle is cut off from blood supply or as an
outpatient procedure for patients who have
experienced frequent episodes with testicular
torsion. If necessary, the surgeon will first
untwist the testicle(s). The surgeon will then
permanently suture the testicles to the inner
lining of the scrotum. If only one testicle has
been problematic, the surgeon will still suture
both testicles as a preventative effort.
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Recovery
Whether the testicle is removed or not, scrotal
exploration results in minimal and short-lived
discomfort. Oral pain medication may be
necessary for a few days. Most surgeons will
allow the patient to return to work or school
within a few days to a week. However, strenuous
physical activity or exercise might be best
avoided for several weeks. The sutures that are
placed around the testicles are not perceived by
the patient and are not bothersome. It would be
very rare for torsion to recur after the
placement of fixation sutures. Patients and
families should be wary of any testicular pain
or swelling, however, especially if there is
only one remaining testicle. In that case they
should seek medical attention immediately.
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Risks
If
the blood supply is cut off to the testicle for
a prolonged period of time, it may atrophy
(shrink) and need to be surgically removed.
Atrophy of the testicle may occur days to months
after the torsion has been corrected. Severe
infection of the testicle and scrotum is also
possible if the blood flow is restricted for a
prolonged period.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q:
What are torsions?
A:
Torsions are sometimes called "winter syndrome".
This is because they often happen in winter,
when it is cold outside. The scrotum of a man
who has been lying in a warm bed is relaxed.
When he arises, his scrotum is exposed to the
colder room air. If the spermatic cord is
twisted while the scrotum is loose, the sudden
contraction that results from the abrupt
temperature change can trap the testicle in that
position. The result is a testicular torsion
Q:
What causes torsion?
A:
In
most males, the testicles are attached to the
inner lining of the scrotum. Males whose
attachment is higher up are at risk of
testicular torsion. This condition is known as a
bell clapper deformity (as in the central piece
of a bell) and is a major cause of testicular
torsion. A male who notices the ability of
either or both testicles to freely rotate within
the scrotum should be aware that he is at risk
of testicular torsion. Testicles that are in a
much lower position and/or in a slightly rotated
position in the scrotal sack are a visual
indicator of this risk.
Q:
Who is affected by torsion?
A:
Some men may be predisposed to testicular
torsion as a result of inadequate connective
tissue within the scrotum. However, the
condition can result from trauma to the scrotum,
particularly if significant swelling occurs. It
may also occur after strenuous exercise or may
not have an obvious cause. The condition is more
common during infancy (first year of life) and
at the beginning of adolescence (puberty).
Q:
What does testicular torsion feel like?
A:
Boys with
testicular torsion get sudden pain and swelling
of the scrotum. The testicles become sore. The
condition may be so painful that it causes
nausea and vomiting. It will mimic infection
(acute
epididymo-orchitis)
but it is very important to seek urgent
treatment.
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