Bērnu sēklinieku vērpšana: kāpēc ir izšķiroša nozīme medicīniskai palīdzībai

Testicular pain in children is often brushed off as a minor injury or assumed to go away on its own. However, testicular torsion is one condition where delay could mean the difference between saving or losing a testicle. Increasing parental awareness is the first line of defense against long-term effects.

Understanding testicular torsion

When the testicle twists around the spermatic cord and cuts off its blood supply, the condition is called testicular torsion. The testicles can be permanently injured if treatment is not given right away, usually within four to six hours.

Although it can occur at any age, newborns and children, as well as adolescents during puberty, are most likely to experience this condition, when growth causes the testicles to move.Timely intervention is critical. Severe pain and seeking immediate medical attention can ensure the survival of the testicle.

Children may not always be able to express their symptoms as well as adults. Parents should be aware of any unexpected changes, such as: sudden, severe pain in one testicle, swelling or redness of the testicle, nausea and vomiting, a child walking awkwardly, refusing to sit or play, and pain that occurs after a minor injury but continues to worsen.

Children often present to the emergency room hours after the onset of pain, which can significantly reduce the chances of survival of the testicle. Awareness is key. Adolescents, young adults, and parents should be educated about the symptoms of testicular torsion and the need for immediate medical attention. Until proven otherwise, treat children’s testicles as an emergency.

Treatment and prognosis

A doctor can confirm the diagnosis by performing an examination or with an ultrasound.

Emergency surgery to disconnect the spermatic cord and secure both testicles is the standard treatment for testicular torsion to prevent recurrence. The testicle can be saved if the blood supply to it is restored immediately. Delaying surgery for more than six to eight hours, however, significantly reduces the affected testicle’s chances of survival.

In cases where the testicle cannot be saved, removal may be necessary. Even then, with one healthy testicle, boys usually maintain normal fertility and hormonal function. Although a normal sex life and good quality of life are possible even with one testicle, the goal is always to preserve both the physical and psychological well-being of the individual.

Tips for parents

There is no guaranteed way to prevent torsion, but understanding makes all the difference.

• Don’t ignore sudden testicular or groin pain in children.
• Seek immediate emergency care rather than trying home remedies.
• Encourage older boys to report any testicular discomfort without embarrassment.

Prompt action can preserve fertility and prevent further complications.

Although testicular torsion is uncommon, it can have major consequences. With early detection and prompt treatment, testicular torsion and long-term effects can be avoided.

(Dr. D. Venkat Subramaniam is a Senior Consultant Urologist and Executive Director, Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology, Chennai. Drvenkat@ainuindia.com)