Comparison of demographic and clinical characteristics in distinguishing testicular torsion from torsion of the appendix testis: A single-center retrospective study

Abstract

Testicular torsion (TT) is an emergency requiring a prompt diagnosis and surgery to avoid irreversible changes and a complete loss of testis. The present study aimed to identify potential factors that may predict a testicular salvage after TT in pediatric patients. Consecutive medical records of all children ≤16 years old with surgically confirmed TT over a period of five years (2011-2016) were collected. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to testicular viability and the type of treatment: Orchidectomy and orchidopexy. The differences between the two groups and potential predictors of testicular salvage were analyzed. In conclusion, distinguishing TT from other acute scrotal pathology, including TAT, is crucial for timely surgical intervention and preservation of testes affected by AS. Older age, nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, shorter duration of symptoms, and CDUS findings of absent or decreased testicular blood flow in the affected testis can distinguish between TT and TAT.