Testicular torsion is a serious urological emergency that requires immediate intervention, particularly within the first six hours of symptom onset. Recently, Hoan My Da Nang Hospital successfully performed an emergency surgery to save the testicle of a 20-year-old patient with testicular torsion, preventing the need for orchiectomy and preserving his reproductive function.

Severe Scrotal Pain During a Public Holiday Prompted Emergency Admission

At 4:00 AM on April 30, 2026, patient L.H.N. (20 years old, Da Nang) was brought to the Emergency Department of Hoan My Da Nang Hospital by his family after experiencing severe scrotal pain that had persisted for several hours without relief.

Recognizing the condition as a potential surgical emergency, the medical team immediately ordered a Doppler ultrasound examination to assess blood flow to the testis and evaluate the spermatic cord. Clinical assessment and ultrasound findings confirmed right testicular torsion, a time-critical condition requiring urgent surgical intervention. The patient was transferred to the operating room within 15 minutes of hospital admission.

Intervention During the Golden Hours Preserved Reproductive Function

Just 15 minutes after arrival, the patient underwent emergency surgery for detorsion of the affected testicle.

Following approximately 30 minutes of surgical detorsion, the testicle gradually regained its normal pink coloration, indicating successful restoration of blood flow and preservation of the right testis. To reduce the risk of future torsion, the surgical team also performed bilateral orchiopexy (testicular fixation).

On the second postoperative day, Doppler ultrasound confirmed adequate perfusion of the right testis. The patient made an uneventful recovery and was discharged home after two days of monitoring.

According to Dr. Duong Ngoc Hiep, Department of Urology and Andrology, testicular torsion occurs when the spermatic cord twists, interrupting the blood supply to the testis. Without timely treatment—especially within the first six hours—the condition can lead to severe complications due to reduced blood flow and insufficient oxygen and nutrient delivery to testicular tissue. In advanced cases, orchiectomy may be necessary to prevent the spread of tissue necrosis.

The ideal window for testicular salvage is within the first 4–6 hours after symptom onset, during which the success rate can reach up to 98%. If treatment is delayed beyond 12 hours, the likelihood of successful testicular preservation decreases to approximately 50%. After 24 hours without intervention, the chance of salvaging the testicle becomes very low, placing patients at significant risk of infertility.

“Time is the key determinant in the treatment of testicular torsion,” Dr. Hiep emphasized.

Early Recognition Is Critical

Doctors advise that all males, particularly boys and adolescents, should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as sudden scrotal pain, scrotal swelling, redness, testicular tightness or tenderness, or pain radiating to the groin or lower abdomen.

Parents are encouraged to educate their children about these warning signs and the importance of promptly reporting any abnormalities involving the scrotum or groin. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential to prevent irreversible testicular damage and preserving future fertility.