Testicular torsion

Testicular torsion is a twisting of the spermatic cord that cuts off the blood supply to the testicle. The signs are an enlarged, reddened and tender scrotum (the bag of skin hanging behind the penis) and, in older boys and young men, abdominal or testicular pain and nausea/vomiting. This is a medical emergency and needs immediate attention.

If your son is diagnosed with testicular torsion, Boston Children's Hospital pediatric surgeons will immediately step in to alleviate his condition.

• Testicular torsion can occur in both newborns and adolescents.
• It's a rare condition that can destroy a testicle.
• If you suspect that your son has testicular torsion, seek emergency medical assistance immediately.

Research at Children's

Researchers at Children's are constantly working on better ways to both diagnose and treat this condition. One recent study on newborn testicular torsion done here demonstrated the potential value of scrotal ultrasounds with Doppler imaging, in order to rule out scrotal hematoma, another condition whose symptoms mimic those of torsion.