Spermatic cord torsion is the twisting of the testicle resulting in reduced blood flow through the tissues which connect it to the abdomen. A scrotal contusion results from a direct blow or impact to the scrotum.
Spermatic Cord Torsion
This can be a serious condition as a complete loss of blood flow would quite quickly result in the death of the testicle. It will cause severe pain and medical help will be needed immediately to prevent further damage and problems.
Symptoms of spermatic cord torsion include sudden severe pain in the scrotum with swelling and tenderness. The athlete may have a feeling of heaviness in the testicle as well as experience nausea and vomiting.
Causes
- Abnormal mobility of the testicle.
- A direct impact can cause the testicle to rotate.
- Nearly all torsions occur in adolescent boys.
- Larger testicles are more likely to become twisted.
Treatment
Seek medical attention immediately. An ultrasound scan may be performed. An injected dye will be observed as it courses through the blood vessels to the testes. This will demonstrate if there is an adequate blood supply to the area. If not, then surgery will be performed.
Surgery should be done within 24 hours to ensure that there is no long-lasting damage to the testicle. Surgery involves untwisting the cord and securing the testicle in place so that it cannot rotate again. The other testicle may also be fixed in place.