Torsion of the testis and factors that determine the choice of orchidectomy and unilateral orchidopexy.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To determine the age group affected by testicular torsion and the relationship with orchidectomy and unilateral orchidopexy. To determine if seasonal variation affects the incidence of torsion of the testis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of confirmed patients with testicular torsion from July 1998 to June 2010 were retrieved. They were divided into two, group I (age<21 years) and group II (age e"21 years). The indices analyzed were the relationship of age group, occupation on orchidectomy and unilateral orchidopexy and seasonal variation and torsion. Cases of acute epididymo-orchitis, torsion of appendix testis, and testicular tumor were excluded from the study.

RESULTS

A total of 169 confirmed cases of testicular torsion were analysed.The estimated incidence was 12.1 cases per 100,000 populations. Their age range from 9 months to 45 years and mean age 23.8±7.6 (SD). 62.1% of torsion occurred at e" 21 years. One hundred and twenty patients (71%) had bilateral orchidopexy, 32 (18.9%) had orchidectomy and 17 (10.1%) had unilateral orchidopexy. In group II; unilateral orchidopexy was significant (p<0.03) and there was a correlation between the occupation and orchidectomy (p<0.02). There was no statistical correlation between total torsion and humidity (r=0.321, p=0.309), or ambient temperature (r=0.248, p=0.437).

CONCLUSIONS

Testicular torsion was commoner in men age e" 21 years and more students lost their testes. Unilateral orchidopexy should be considered in some cases. There was no relationship between torsion, orchidectomy, ambient temperature and relative humidity. The need for rigorous pre-school and pre-employment health education is advocated.