Torsion of the TestisTorsion of the testis is when a testis twists around in the scrotum. An emergency operation is usually needed to treat this condition.
Understanding the testesThe two testes lie in the scrotum. The spermatic cord is like a flexible tube that goes from each testis to the lower abdomen. The spermatic cord contains the blood vessels that take blood to and from the testis, and the vas deferens which takes sperm from the testis to the penis.
You can normally feel the spermatic cord through the skin of the scrotum just above the testis. It feels like a thick piece of string. The testes can move around a little in the scrotum, but cannot usually move enough to twist round fully.
What happens in a torsion (twisting) of the testis?
In some people the tissues that surround the testis in the scrotum are lax, and the testes can move around in the scrotum more than usual. If a testis twists round, the spermatic cord has to twist around too as it is 'fixed' higher up. If this happens, the blood flow to the testis is blocked in the twisted spermatic cord. (This is like a hose-pipe attached to a tap. The water will not flow if the hose gets twisted on itself.)
A testis with its blood supply cut off is likely become damaged and 'die' unless the blood flow is quickly restored.
