Testicular Salvage After Testicular Torsion Using Tunica Albuginea Fasciotomy with Tunica Vaginalis Flap: A Single Institution Preliminary Experience

Abstract

Introduction: Testicular torsion is a true urologic emergency. It occurs when the blood supply to the testis is compromised as the vessels twist along the spermatic cord. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical to prevent prolonged ischemia time which is crucial to its prognosis. This paper aimed to present cases of testicular torsion who underwent testis sparing surgery for torsion.

Methods: Cases of testicular torsion admitted at the institution from January 2023 to July 2024 were reviewed. Demographic data, scrotal ultrasound findings, intraoperative findings and ischemia time were documented. Patients who underwent tunica albuginea fasciotomy with tunica vaginalis flap were monitored post-surgery via scrotal ultrasound, documenting testicular size.

Results: Twenty seven (27) cases of testicular torsion were reviewed. Of these cases, 4 improved after detorsion and orchidopexy, 12 cases with > 72 hours ischemia time and failed detorsion underwent orchiectomy, 11 cases with < 72 hours of ischemia time, tunica albuginea fasciotomy were performed. Five (5) of these 11 cases showed no improvement in appearance and no bleeding was observed and subsequent orchiectomy was performed. Six cases demonstrated improvement in appearance and bleeding after tunica albuginea fasciotomy, tunica vaginalis flap used to cover the resulting defect. Of these 6 cases, 2 cases showed intact testicular size, 1 case had testicular atrophy on monitoring and 3 cases were lost to follow-up.

Conclusion: Testicular torsion remains to be a critical urologic emergency. Prompt diagnosis and immediate surgery required to improve salvage rates. Tunica albuginea incision, with subsequent tunica vaginalis flap may be an option for the urologist to improve salvage, although not consistently prevent testicular atrophy.