Torsion of the testis: review of clinical experience in Zimbabwe.

A detailed retrospective analysis of 90 patients with torsion of the testis managed at Mpilo Central Hospital between January 1987 and December 1991 is presented. The mean age of all patients was 17 years (range two months to 32 years). Sudden and severe scrotal pain was the commonest mode of presentation seen in 98 pc (88/90) of cases. Vomiting occurred in 30 pc (27/90) of cases and urinary symptoms were present in 5.5 pc (5/90) of cases. A history suggestive of previous episodes of torsion was obtained in 12 pc (11/90) of cases. Seventy one pc (64/90) of patients presented within 72 hours (mean delay 32 hours). Twenty nine pc presented late (i.e. after 72 hours) with a mean delay of seven days. The overall testicular salvage rate was 36 pc in this series. The only complications encountered were two minor wound infections which settled down on dressings and antibiotics. The successful management of a patient with torsion of the testis depends on; early consultation on the part of the patient, correct diagnosis by the doctor at first consultation and urgent surgical exploration of the affected testis.