Name of the Procedure:

Suture or repair of testicular injury
Common name(s): Testicular repair, Testicular suture, Testicular reconstruction

Summary

In layman's terms, this procedure involves surgically repairing a damaged testicle using stitches. It aims to restore normal function and prevent complications like infection or loss of the testicle.

Purpose

The procedure addresses injuries to the testicle, such as those caused by trauma or accidents. The goals are to repair the damage, alleviate pain, restore normal function, and prevent complications like infection or infertility.

Indications

• Severe pain and swelling in the testicle
• Open wound or laceration on the testicle
• Hematoma or significant bleeding in the testicle
• Loss of integrity of the testicular tissue
• Signs of testicular torsion where blood flow needs to be restored

Preparation

• Fast for a specified period before the procedure, usually 6-8 hours.
• Adjust or discontinue certain medications as instructed by the healthcare provider.
• Undergo diagnostic tests like ultrasounds, blood tests, and physical examinations to assess the extent of the injury.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient is usually given general anesthesia to ensure they are asleep and pain-free during the surgery.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the scrotum to access the injured testicle.
3. Repair: The surgeon uses specialized sutures to repair the testicular tissue. Any damaged blood vessels are also stitched, and any hematomas are drained.
4. Closure: The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches, and sterile dressings are applied to the area.
5. Post-Op Care: Antibiotics may be administered to prevent infection.

Tools, Equipment, and Technology used:

• Surgical sutures and needles
• Scalpels and surgical scissors
• Hemostatic tools to control bleeding

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of the injury.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital surgical suite or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• General surgeon or urologist
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Scrotal hematoma (blood collection)
• Testicular atrophy (shrinking of the testicle)
• Recurrence of injury
• Infertility or reduced fertility

Benefits

• Relief from pain
• Restoration of normal testicular function
• Prevention of complications like infection or infertility
• Improved long-term outcomes for reproductive health

Recovery

• Rest and limit physical activity for a few weeks.
• Keep the surgical area clean and dry.
• Follow pain management protocols as prescribed.
• Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities until cleared by the doctor.

Expected Recovery Time

Complete recovery usually takes about 4-6 weeks.

Alternatives

• Watchful waiting for minor injuries
• Non-surgical treatment options, such as ice packs and pain medications
• More extensive surgical repairs, such as orchiectomy (removal of the testicle) in severe cases

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Non-surgical options usually have less immediate risk but may not sufficiently address severe injuries.
• An orchiectomy might be necessary in extreme cases but results in the loss of the testicle.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia and will not feel pain. Post-procedure, there may be some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with pain medications and ice packs. The patient will also receive instructions on how to care for the surgical site to promote healing and prevent infection.