Testikierreviä

Testikierreviä is a Finnish term that directly translates to "testicular torsion" in English. It refers to a medical emergency where the spermatic cord, which supplies blood to the testicle, becomes twisted. This twisting cuts off blood flow to the testicle, causing sudden and severe pain. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent permanent damage to the testicle.

The condition most commonly affects adolescent males between the ages of 12 and 18, but it can occur at any age. Symptoms typically include sudden, severe scrotal pain, swelling of one testicle, and sometimes nausea and vomiting. The affected testicle may also be positioned higher than the other or appear more horizontal. The cause of testicular torsion is not always clear, but it can sometimes be triggered by physical activity or minor trauma.

Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination and an ultrasound scan to assess blood flow to the testicle. Treatment involves surgery to untwist the spermatic cord and, if possible, to secure both testicles in place to prevent future torsion. The success of surgical intervention depends on how quickly it is performed. If blood flow is restored within a few hours, the testicle can often be saved. However, if the torsion is prolonged, the testicle may need to be removed.