Testicular Torsion
Testicular torsion is when a testicle twists on its spermatic cord, cutting off blood supply and threatening the testicle's survival.
When to get help quickly: It is a urological emergency. Sudden severe testicular pain — especially in adolescent boys or young men — needs immediate hospital review; the testicle can be saved if treated within hours.
Common symptoms
Sudden, severe, one-sided testicular pain, often with nausea, vomiting, and a high-riding or swollen testicle. Pain can radiate to the lower abdomen.
When imaging helps
Imaging confirms the twist, shows whether the testicle still has blood flow, and helps separate torsion from other causes of acute testicular pain.
What radiology does
Scrotal ultrasound with Doppler is the first test; absent or markedly reduced blood flow to the testicle confirms torsion.
What usually happens next
Treatment is urgent surgical exploration to untwist the testicle and stitch both testicles in place to prevent recurrence; if the testicle is no longer viable, it is removed.
Seen this on your report?
Your doctor or the radiologist who wrote it can tell you what it means for you.