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Condition

Pediatric Testicular Torsion

Key Points About Testicular Torsion in Children

  • Testicular torsion is a painful twisting of a boy’s testicles and spermatic cord. It can happen to one or both testicles.
  • Torsion causes blood to not flow to the testicles. This can damage them. To reduce the risk of long-term problems, surgery is often done within six hours of symptoms.
  • It often occurs in boys ages 10 and older. It can also happen when a baby is growing in the uterus, or shortly after a baby is born. The condition may be linked to a gene.
  • Symptoms can include a painful, red and swollen scrotum, and nausea and vomiting.
  • If the condition is not treated quickly, it can lead to loss of the testicle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Providers Who Treat Testicular Torsion

    Departments that Treat Testicular Torsion

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    Urology

    At Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., our pediatric urologists provide comprehensive care for disorders affecting reproductive and urinary organs.