A 15-year-old boy from Shenzhen was suddenly awakened by severe abdominal pain in the early hours of the morning, and his parents initially mistook it for indigestion. By the time he was brought to the hospital more than six critical hours had passed. Emergency surgery managed to save his testicle.
Testicular Torsion: A Time-Sensitive Emergency
Testicular torsion is a life-threatening emergency that occurs when the spermatic cord wraps around the testicle, cutting off blood supply and leading to sudden pain and swelling. Medical experts state that when surgery is performed within 4 to 6 hours of the onset of symptoms, the success rate can be as high as 80% to 90%; delaying treatment for more than 6 hours can lead to irreversible damage; and by 12 to 24 hours, the testicle may have died, necessitating its removal.
Common Triggers and Prevention Tips
Testicular torsion commonly occurs due to rapid sleep movements, sudden drops in temperature, injury to the scrotum, and vigorous activities. Parents and doctors advise that if a boy experiences sudden severe pain in one testicle, accompanied by abdominal pain and vomiting, or if he walks with legs apart due to pain, they should seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent irreversible damage.