Testicular Torsion Repair (Septopexy)
Important information about testicular torsion repair (septopexy):
Testicular torsion occurs when the testicle twists around the cord (the structure extending from the groin to the testes that contains the sperm ducts and blood vessels). It is like an apple twisting on its stem. Your child had an operation to untwist the testicle and tack it down into the scrotum. This is done so that the testicle does not twist again. In many cases the opposite testicle was also tacked down.
Your child will go home the same day as the surgery.
Instructions for care after surgery:
Dressing
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Your child will have an incision on the scrotum.
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The incision may be covered with Dermabond®. Dermabond is a sterile liquid that holds wound edges together. It can stay in place for 5 to10 days and will fall off on its own. It does not need any special care.
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Your child should not scratch, rub, or pick at the Dermabond. This may loosen it before your child’s incision is healed.
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Your child will have stitches underneath the skin. These stitches will dissolve, they do not need to be removed.
Appearance
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Scrotal swelling with black and blue bruising is normal after a septopexy. The color will slowly change and go away over the next 3 weeks.
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The incisions may feel lumpy after surgery. This is the “healing ridge.” It is normal. The incision will become smooth over the next 6 months.
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If your child has bleeding, apply gentle pressure. Do not let go for 10 minutes. If bleeding continues, call the urology office.
Diet
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Your child can begin eating when at home.
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Start with clear liquids (apple juice, ice pops, water ice). Add solid food slowly and in small amounts.
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Your child may vomit on the day of surgery. This should stop by the morning after surgery. Call the urology office if the vomiting does not stop.
Bathing
Activity
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Your child may not ride straddle toys (bikes, walkers, swings) for 2 weeks after surgery.
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Your surgeon will tell you when your child may swim in a pool.
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Your child may return to school when comfortable, usually within 3 to 5 days. He may wear a scrotal support if provided and age appropriate.
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Your surgeon will tell you when your child may return to gym class or sports.
Pain management
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Your surgeon will prescribe pain medicine to be sure that your child is comfortable. The medications typically used for postoperative pain management are Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Mortin).
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The directions and specific dosing for the medicines will be reviewed with you before your discharge.
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Your child may wear tight fitting underwear for comfort.
Bowel movements
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Your child should have regular bowel movements.
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Offer juices, fruits, and vegetables to prevent straining.
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Do not let your child get constipated.
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If your child does not have a bowel movement within 24 hours after surgery, you may give a stool softener. These are available without a prescription and should be given as directed on the bottle.
Post-op visit
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After you return home, call the urology office to schedule your follow-up appointment.
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Your surgeon will let you know when to return for a follow-up visit in the office.
Contact your CHOP healthcare team with questions, concerns or if:
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Your child has signs of infection:
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Your child's pain worsens or is not relieved by Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or Ibuprofen (Motrin®).
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There is bleeding from the incision that does not stop after 10 full minutes of gentle pressure. A small ooze of blood from the incision the first 1 to 2 days is normal.
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Your child has a temperature of 101.5°F (38.6°C) by mouth or 102.5°F (39°C) rectally.
Monday-Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm: 215-590-2754
Weekends, Evenings, Holidays: 215-590-1000. Ask to speak with the urology provider on call.
Reviewed February 2024 by Tara Phillips, CRNP