Also known as: Hodendrehung
Die Hodentorsion ist die plötzliche Verdrehung des Samenstrangs, wodurch die Blutversorgung des Hodens unterbrochen wird und es zu starken Schmerzen sowie raschem Gewebetod kommt. Sie tritt am häufigsten bei zurückgehaltenen (nicht abgestiegenen) Bauchhoden auf, die zudem ein erhöhtes Tumorrisiko tragen, was wiederum eine Torsion begünstigen kann. Anzeichen sind akute Bauch- oder Skrotalschmerzen, Schwellung und Kollaps. Es handelt sich um einen chirurgischen Notfall, der durch Entfernung des betroffenen Hodens behandelt wird.
Testicular torsion happens when the cord supplying a testicle twists, shutting off its blood flow. The result is intense pain and, if not corrected quickly, death of the testicular tissue. It is most common in undescended testicles located inside the abdomen.
Twisting is more likely when a testicle is abnormally located or enlarged, such as a retained abdominal testicle or one affected by a tumor, which adds weight and mobility that promote rotation.
Signs come on suddenly and include severe abdominal or scrotal pain, a firm swollen testicle or abdominal mass, reluctance to move, vomiting, and collapse.
When an undescended testicle is involved, the only outward clue may be sudden abdominal pain.Diagnosis is based on physical examination and ultrasound showing an enlarged testicle with reduced blood flow, often combined with a history of an undescended testicle. Bloodwork helps assess the animal overall and prepare for emergency anesthesia and surgery.
Emergency surgery to remove the affected testicle relieves pain and prevents further complications. Supportive care for pain and shock is provided as needed. Most animals recover well once the affected testicle is removed.
Neutering, including removal of retained testicles, prevents torsion and the associated cancer risk.
Because retained testicles carry both torsion and cancer risk, veterinarians recommend locating and removing them during neutering rather than leaving them in place.This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
