Testicular torsion must be treated quickly, this is the treatment option

There are many things that can cause testicular pain and swelling, one of which is testicular torsion. If it is caused by testicular torsion, it means you have to quickly go to the doctor because this is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Often underestimated, testicular torsion is a medical emergency

Testicular torsion is a condition when the testicles become entangled by the sperm ducts. These spermatic channels are supposed to carry oxygenated blood to the testes. However, when this channel is twisted, the flow of blood and oxygen to the testicles is not smooth.

Men who experience testicular problems will feel very severe pain in the testicles. If left for too long without treatment, this condition can cause one part of the testicle to become swollen, aka the next large testicle. Even worse, blocked oxygen flow to the testes can threaten infertility.

However, not all pain in the testicles always indicates that you have testicular torsion. That is why, it is important to immediately consult a doctor to determine the cause. It also aims to prevent the disease from getting worse.

Treatment options for testicular torsion

Any problems that occur in the testicles must be treated quickly. It should be noted that the testes are the "factories" of sperm and hormones in men. If this organ is disturbed, the production of sperm and hormones in the body will of course be disrupted, as well as when you are exposed to testicular torsion.

Launching from Medical News Today, testicular function can still be saved if treatment is carried out within 4-6 hours of the onset of pain. However, if the blood supply to the testicles is cut off for a long time, gradually the testicles can be permanently damaged. Even if the treatment is continued to be delayed for more than 12 hours, it is possible that the testicle will be removed because it is no longer functioning, as reported by the Mayo Clinic.

So, so that this does not happen, the doctor will suggest several treatment options for you. The following are possible treatments for testicular torsion, namely:

1. Operation

One way to treat testicular torsion is through the orchidopexy operation route. This type of surgery is performed to loosen the sperm duct that wraps around the testicle and return the testicle to its normal position.

During surgery, the doctor will make a small incision in the scrotum and release the spermatic cord that wraps around the testicle. The doctor will also place 1-2 stitches in the spermatic duct to the inner scrotal wall to prevent the testicle from twisting in the future.

The sooner this procedure is performed, the faster blood can flow to the testicles. That way, the testicles can return to normal function.

Orchidopexy surgery generally does not require hospitalization. After the surgery is complete, you will be asked to wait in the recovery room for several hours before you can go home.

2. Removal of the testicles

If blood flow to the testicles has stopped for more than 6-12 hours, the testicular tissue will eventually become damaged or die. This causes the testicles to be removed because they are no longer functioning properly.

The doctor will perform an orchidectomy, which is a surgical procedure to remove one or two testicles that are problematic. If only one testicle is removed, the doctor will place sutures around the other testicle to prevent testicular torsion in the future.

3. Pain relievers

After the surgery is done, the scrotum will usually swell for 2-4 weeks. But no need to worry, the doctor will prescribe pain medication to make you more comfortable. Always discuss with your doctor if you are still experiencing pain or side effects after testicular torsion surgery.