Testicular torsion in vivo models: Mechanisms and treatments

AbstractTesticular torsion (TT) is a condition in which a testis rotates around its longitudinal axis and twists the spermatic cord. This in turn results in a significant decrease in blood flow and perfusion of testicular tissue. During TT, the testicular tissue is affected by ischemia, heat stress, hypoxia, and oxidative and nitrosative stress. The TT should be considered an emergency condition and surgical intervention (testicular detorsion (TD)) as the sole treatment option in viable cases involves counter-rotation on twisted testes associated, when possible, to orchipexy, in order to avoid recurrence. Possible TD side-effects occur due to reperfusion and endothelial cells injury, microcirculation disturbances, and intense germ cells loss. Therefore, development of new approaches based on surgical techniques and/or drugs can help to improve the time frame of induction and recovery from TT. Experimental studies allow observation of these effects under controlled conditions. These studies also can improve treatment in humans, that usually do not have many options aside from TD surgery. Adjuvant approaches, such as antioxidant therapy, medications, and anti-inflammatory drugs, can help in the future to manage TT. Thus, the current review aims to discuss TT surgery-based methods, different time frames for TT induction, and the associated pathophysiology by emphasizing cellular and molecular events as well as different therapeutic agent applications for TT.
Source: Andrology - Category: Urology & Nephrology Authors: Tags: REVIEW ARTICLE Source Type: research