The effect of unilateral experimental testicular torsion on spermatogenesis and fertility

Significant subfertility exists in patients following unilateral testicular torsion, implying bilateral testicular disease. Immunological activation has been detected after experimental torsion and the present study sought to demonstrate immunologically mediated effects on contralateral spermatogenesis following experimental torsion, as well as quantifying ipsilateral damage. Early and late effects of torsion on bilateral spermatogenesis were studied at 1 and 6 months in 10 groups each containing 20 rats. Gross and histological examination, direct immunofluorescence tests, vas deferens counts and copulation studies were performed. Severe ipsilateral damage was noted, even after brief torsion periods. No contralateral testicular effects, immunological or otherwise, were observed. Ipsilateral damage after torsion may have been underestimated. There is no damage to contralateral testicular exocrine function following unilateral experimental torsion.