Torsion of testis in Nigerians

Torsion in a black population is presented. The clinical features are the same as the white counterpart, but the mean age is, however, much higher. There is no bias against any side of testis. Physicians are to blame for the poor salvage rate. Gangrenous testes should not be conserved and early diagnosis and treatment remain the only means of saving torted testis. Prophylactic fixation of contralateral testis is mandatory and must not be postponed. External manual detorsion is not a substitute for surgery and should not remove the sense of emergency. Relevant pathology, the mechanism of torsion and differential diagnosis are discussed.