Torsiossa

Torsiossa is a medical term used in Finnish medical literature to describe the state of torsion, where a body part twists around its axis, potentially cutting off blood supply. The word derives from Latin torsio (twist) and is used to describe acute twisting events across organs and tissues. Clinically, torsiossa denotes a twist that may cause venous outflow obstruction first, followed by arterial ischemia, and can lead to tissue necrosis if not promptly treated.

Common sites include the ovaries in females and the testes in males, where torsion constitutes a surgical emergency. Torsion can also occur in intestinal segments, the spleen, or the appendix in rare pediatric or veterinary cases. Symptoms typically include sudden, severe unilateral pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal or pelvic tenderness. In some cases, tachycardia or fever may be present.

Diagnosis relies on imaging and clinical suspicion. Transvaginal ultrasound with Doppler is often first-line for suspected ovarian torsion; testicular torsion is evaluated with scrotal ultrasound and Doppler. CT or MRI may be used when the diagnosis is unclear or to assess surrounding structures. Definitive management is surgical detorsion, with decisions about fixing or removing affected tissue depending on viability and patient age.

In ovarian torsion, detorsion with oophoropexy may be performed to reduce recurrence and preserve ovarian function. In testicular torsion, urgent detorsion followed by orchidopexy of both testes is standard to prevent recurrence and preserve fertility. Prognosis improves with rapid intervention; delays increase the risk of necrosis and long-term consequences. See also torsion, detorsion, and volvulus.