Experimental testicular torsion: effect on endocrine and exocrine function and contralateral testicular histology

In order to investigate whether unilateral testicular torsion exerts a negative influence on the previously undisturbed contralateral side, exocrine and endocrine testicular function were evaluated before and two months after torsion. A rat model with 6 hours', 12 hours' or permanent extravaginal 540 degrees torsion of the right testis was used; a sham operated group of animals served as controls. Ejaculates were collected by electrostimulation; LH, FSH and testosterone serum levels were determined by radioimmunoassays. Eight weeks after torsion sperm output had decreased by half in the experimental groups, and LH levels increased significantly, whereas the other hormone levels, as well as the controls, remained unchanged. Morphometry of the contralateral testis revealed no alterations except a significant increase of the Leydig cells and interstitial cells in some subgroups. All observed changes correlate with the functional loss of one testis; definite evidence for contralateral damage was not observed.