300 Longwood Avenue Boston, MA 02115 (617) 355-6000 My Child Has: Torsion of the appendix testis Programs that treat this condition Andrology Program   What is torsion of the appendix testis? The appendix testis referrs to a congenital appendage that is located along the testis. This appendage has no function, yet more than half of all boys are born with them. Torsion of the appendix testis occurs when an appendage twists. Unlike testicular torsion which is a medical emergency, this condition poses no threat to health and usually no treatment other than to manage pain, is needed. What are the symptoms of torsion of the appendix testis? Symptoms include scotal pain and sometimes swelling. The symptoms for this condition are very similar to the symptoms of testicular torsion. How is torsion of the appendix testis diagnosed? A pediatric urologist will examine your child and make a diagnosis based on a physical examination and history provided by the child or family member. A scrotal ultrasound or an X-ray or both are sometimes obtained. If there is a lot of swelling or the radiology tests are inconclusive, the urologist may perform exploratory surgery to rule out testicular torsion, which is a medical emergency. How is torsion of the appendix testis treated? Torsion of the appendix testis is treated with rest, observation, analgesics, such as acetominophen and ibuprofin, and an ice pack over the affected area, until the symptoms disappear. Once this appendage is twisted and the symptoms subside, the problem will not recur. If the pain persists more than 10 days, then surgical removal may be necessary. The information on this website should not be taken as medical advice, which can only be given to you by your personal health care professional. Copyright © Children's Hospital Boston. All rights reserved.