What is the main risk of untreated testicular torsion beyond 6 hours?

• A. Infertility
• B. Testicular necrosis
• C. Chronic pain
• D. Testicular rupture

Answer: (B)

The main risk of untreated testicular torsion beyond 6 hours is testicular necrosis. Testicular torsion occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testis. If this condition is not addressed promptly, the lack of blood flow leads to tissue death due to ischemia, resulting in necrosis of the testicle. After 6 hours, the likelihood of irreparable damage increases significantly, and the testicular tissue may begin to necrose due to the continued lack of oxygen and nutrients that are necessary for cellular metabolism.

Infertility, while a potential long-term consequence of testicular torsion, is more directly related to the loss of the testis itself, which occurs after necrosis. Chronic pain and testicular rupture are also serious concerns, but they are not the immediate consequence of prolonged testicular torsion; necrosis is the critical issue that dictates the urgency of treatment in these cases. Addressing testicular torsion quickly is essential to preserve testicular function and prevent long-term complications.