Testicular torsion occurs when a testicle rotates, twisting the spermatic cord that brings blood to the scrotum. The reduced blood flow causes sudden and often severe pain and swelling. Testicular torsion is most common between ages 12 and 18, but it can occur at any age, even before birth.
he surgery to attach the testicles to the scrotum takes about 45 minutes. There may be some pain, but it shouldn't be too bad. It's much better than the torsion. Sometimes, if the torsion goes on too long, doctors won't be able to save the affected testicle.
Testicular torsion is an emergency. In most cases, surgery is needed right away to relieve pain and swelling and to prevent the loss of the testicle. For the best results, surgery should be done within 4 hours after symptoms begin. By 12 hours, a testicle may become damaged so badly that it has to be removed.