PANCE Genitourinary Practice Test

Testicular torsion is a vascular emergency where time matters for saving the testicle. When torsion is likely based on acute, severe unilateral scrotal pain and exam findings that raise suspicion, the next step is urgent surgical exploration to detorse the testicle and secure it in place (orchiopexy). This approach addresses the underlying blood supply problem immediately and prevents recurrence; it also allows assessment of viability and, if needed, removal of a nonviable testis. Delaying for imaging or observation can let the torsion progress, decreasing the chance of salvage as time passes. Antibiotics don’t fix the vascular issue, and while Doppler ultrasound can help if the diagnosis is uncertain, it should not delay surgery when torsion is highly suspected. Often, the contralateral testis is fixed during the procedure to reduce future torsion risk.