To provide nationwide evidence on the current trends, risk factors, and important perioperative outcomes of men undergoing surgical exploration for suspected testicular torsion in Germany, highlighting its significance in improving clinical practices.
Key Findings:
81,899 males underwent surgical exploration for suspected testicular torsion, with 14% undergoing orchiectomy and 38% detorsion with preservation, indicating varying outcomes based on surgical approach.
The incidence of surgical exploration decreased from 5,235 cases in 2005 to 4,900 in 2021, raising concerns about access to timely care.
Patients undergoing orchiectomy had higher rates of diabetes, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and obesity, suggesting a need for targeted preoperative assessments.
Interpretation:
The findings suggest that surgical exploration for suspected testicular torsion is declining, and outcomes vary significantly based on the type of surgery and the department performing the operation, which may necessitate a review of referral practices.
Limitations:
Data limited to in-hospital cases and may not represent all patients with suspected testicular torsion, potentially skewing the understanding of the condition's management.
No access to individual patient data for deeper analysis, limiting the ability to draw comprehensive conclusions.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the importance of urological expertise in managing suspected testicular torsion and suggests a need for improved treatment pathways to enhance patient outcomes, including better training for non-urological departments.
by Nikolaos Pyrgidis, Maria Apfelbeck, Regina Stredele, Severin Rodler, Marc Kidess, Yannic Volz, Philipp Weinhold, Christian G. Stief, Julian Marcon, Gerald B. Schulz, Michael Chaloupka
