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Testicular Torsion (Twisted Testicle) in Dogs

Occurrence: very rare
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

Testicular torsion, also known as twisted testicle, is an acute condition in which the testicle rotates around its own axis, leading to an interruption of the blood supply. This can lead to tissue damage or death of the testicle if not treated quickly.

The most important facts at a glance

Testicular torsion in dogs occurs when a testicle rotates around its axis, which interrupts the blood supply. This condition is caused by abnormal mobility of the testicle within the scrotum, often due to excessively loose spermatic cord tissue. Genetic factors can play a role, with certain breeds such as Great Danes, Greyhounds, and Boxers being more susceptible. Dogs with cryptorchidism also have an increased risk. External influences such as violent movements or blows can trigger a torsion, but sometimes it occurs without any discernible cause.

Symptoms include Pain, loss of appetite, weakness, Vomiting, and Swelling in the scrotum. A quick diagnosis by a veterinarian, often using ultrasound, is crucial as it is an emergency that requires immediate surgical treatment. The operation aims to rotate the testicle back or remove it if it is irreparably damaged. The prognosis is good if treated quickly, as the testicle can often be saved. However, delayed treatment can lead to permanent damage.

Prevention is difficult, especially with genetic predisposition, but prophylactic measures such as fixation of the testicle, regular veterinary examinations, and possibly early castration can reduce the risk. Research focuses on the genetic causes and improving diagnostics to develop preventive approaches and reduce the need for surgical interventions.

Causes

Testicular torsion results from abnormal mobility of the testicle within the scrotum. Normally, the testicles are secured by the so-called spermatic cord tissue, which holds them in place and prevents excessive movement. In some dogs, however, this tissue may be too loose, increasing the risk of torsion.

The cause of this abnormal mobility can be genetic. Breeds with a genetic predisposition to testicular torsions include Great Danes, Greyhounds, and Boxers. There is evidence that dogs with cryptorchidism have a higher risk of testicular torsion because the testicle is not correctly fixed in the scrotum.

In addition, external factors or sudden movements, such as vigorous play or a direct blow to the scrotum, can trigger a torsion. It is also possible for a torsion to occur without any discernible external influences.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Diarrhea

The symptoms of testicular torsion often appear suddenly and can be very dramatic. One of the most common signs is acute Pain in the area of the scrotum. The affected dog may suddenly start to behave restlessly, whine, or even scream in Pain.

There may also be visible Swelling of the scrotum. The affected area may be warm and reddened, and the dog may try to Licking or bite the area to relieve the Pain. Other symptoms may include Vomiting, loss of appetite, and a general feeling of unwellness.

Another sign is that the dog shows Lameness, especially when trying to move or walk. In severe cases, the dog may appear lethargic or refuse to move.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of testicular torsion usually begins with a thorough clinical examination by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will examine the scrotum for Swelling, tenderness, and abnormal positions. A physical examination can often provide clues to a torsion.

To confirm the diagnosis, an ultrasound examination of the testicle can be performed. The ultrasound can help assess blood flow in the scrotum and determine if a torsion is present. In some cases, an X-ray may also be taken to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms.

A quick diagnosis is crucial, as testicular torsion is an emergency situation that must be treated quickly to avoid permanent damage to the testicle.

Therapy

Treatment for testicular torsion usually requires surgical intervention. The affected testicle must be surgically rotated back to restore blood supply. This is an emergency procedure that should be performed as quickly as possible to ensure the best chance of success.

In some cases, especially if the torsion is left untreated for too long, it may be necessary to remove the affected testicle because the tissue may already be irreversibly damaged. This operation is called an orchiectomy.

After the operation, the dog will usually receive pain medication and possibly antibiotics to prevent infection. Careful monitoring and aftercare are important to ensure that the dog recovers well and no further complications occur.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs who receive rapid and effective treatment for testicular torsion is generally good. If the torsion is treated within hours, the testicle can often be saved, and the dog can recover completely.

However, the prognosis is worse if treatment is delayed. Prolonged loss of blood supply can lead to permanent damage or loss of the testicle. In such cases, the dog can still lead a normal life, especially if only one testicle is affected.

It is important for owners to recognize the symptoms of testicular torsion early and seek veterinary help immediately to achieve the best results.

Prevention

Since some dogs are genetically predisposed to testicular torsions, specific prevention measures can be difficult. In dogs that are prone to this condition, prophylactic surgical fixation of the testicle may be considered to reduce the risk of torsion.

A regular veterinary examination can help identify potential risk factors early. Owners should ensure that their dogs do not engage in excessive physical activities that could lead to a torsion, especially if they have already shown symptoms of cryptorchidism.

Another preventive approach may be to neuter dogs early, especially if they are not intended for breeding. This can reduce the risk of testicular torsions and other testicular problems.

Outlook on current research

Testicular torsion or twisted testicle in dogs is a relatively rare but serious health problem. It occurs when a testicle rotates around its own axis, leading to an interruption of the blood supply. Research in this area is important to develop the best methods for diagnosis and treatment. Current studies focus on better understanding the causes of this disease in order to develop preventive measures.

An important area of research is the study of genetic predisposition to testicular torsion. Some studies suggest that certain breeds, especially large breeds such as Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds, are more susceptible to this condition. Researchers are working to identify genetic markers that could indicate an increased risk. This could help in the future to develop breeding strategies to reduce the risk in affected breeds.

Another research focus is on improving diagnostic methods. Currently, the diagnosis is often made by physical examination and ultrasound, but these methods have their limitations. Advances in diagnostic imaging, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), could allow for a more accurate and earlier diagnosis. Scientists are also investigating the role of biomarkers that can be detected in the blood to facilitate a faster diagnosis.

Treatment strategies for testicular torsion usually involve surgical procedures in which the affected testicle is removed. Research is investigating alternative treatment methods to reduce the need for surgery. One possibility is the exploration of manual detorsion techniques, although this technique is currently still in its infancy and can only be used in very specific situations.

Prevention is also an important area of research. Since testicular torsion often occurs in dogs with cryptorchidism (displaced testicle), it is being investigated whether early surgical interventions in these animals can reduce the risk of torsion. In addition, the role of nutrition and exercise in the prevention of testicular torsion is being investigated in order to provide pet owners with practical tips on reducing the risk.

In summary, research on testicular torsion in dogs aims to better understand the disease and develop more effective diagnostic and treatment approaches. Advances in genetics and diagnostics could lead to a significant reduction in cases of testicular torsion in the future and improve the quality of life of affected dogs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is testicular torsion in dogs? Testicular torsion is a condition in which a testicle of the dog rotates around its own axis, leading to an interruption of the blood supply. This can lead to Pain, Swelling, and serious health problems if not treated in time.
What symptoms are typical of testicular torsion? Typical symptoms of testicular torsion are sudden Pain, Swelling in the scrotum, fatigue, loss of appetite, and in some cases Fever. The dog may also show signs of discomfort, such as Licking or biting in the area of the scrotum.
What causes testicular torsion? The exact causes are not fully known, but factors such as genetic predisposition, physical activity, and anatomical abnormalities such as cryptorchidism can increase the risk. Large dog breeds appear to be more commonly affected.
How is testicular torsion diagnosed? The diagnosis is usually made through a combination of physical examination, ultrasound, and sometimes blood tests. In some cases, an MRI may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
How is testicular torsion treated? The primary treatment usually consists of a surgical procedure in which the affected testicle is removed. In some cases, an attempt may be made to manually detorse the testicle, but this is often unsuccessful and is rarely used.
Can testicular torsion be prevented? Direct prevention is difficult, but in dogs with cryptorchidism, early surgical removal of the displaced testicle can reduce the risk. In addition, regular veterinary examinations can help to identify problems early.
Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to testicular torsion? Yes, some large dog breeds such as Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, and others may be more susceptible to testicular torsion due to their genetic predisposition and physical characteristics.
How quickly does testicular torsion need to be treated? Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that should be treated as quickly as possible. Delayed treatment can lead to irreversible damage to the testicle and other health complications.
What are the long-term prospects for dogs with testicular torsion? If the condition is treated quickly and effectively, the prognosis is usually good. Dogs can lead a normal life even if a testicle has been removed. However, complications can occur if treatment is delayed.
Can dogs live a normal life after testicular torsion? Yes, most dogs can live a normal life after testicular torsion and appropriate treatment. Surgical removal of a testicle usually has no negative effects on the dog’s general well-being.