Torsion of the spermatic cord in adults

Intravaginal torsion of the spermatic cord is seen typically in the peripubertal period. At our hospital 33 patients with intravaginal torsion were seen between 1970 and 1986, and 13 (39%) were more than 20 years old. Because of delay in seeking treatment or error in initial diagnosis proper treatment often was late in these 13 adults. This delay in treatment allowed for a testicular salvage rate of only 38%. Increased awareness by physicians that torsion often occurs in adults plus an accurate history and evaluation may allow for a higher testicular salvage rate in this age group.