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Recurrent torsion of the spermatic cord and scrotal testis in a stallion.

Abstract: A stallion was twice referred for evaluation of scrotal swelling and signs of pain. The first admission followed a 3-year period of recurrent signs of left-sided scrotal pain and swelling. After the removal of the left testis because of testicular torsion, the stallion was returned to service. The conception rate was 82% for the next breeding season. Two years after initial surgery, the stallion again was evaluated because of acute signs of right-sided scrotal pain and swelling. Right-sided testicular torsion was detected and corrected, and the testis was sutured in place. The stallion's conception rate for the following breeding season was greater than 90%.
Publication Date: 1990-05-15 PubMed ID: 2347760
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Summary

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The research article focuses on the study of a stallion who experienced recurring incidents of testicular torsion leading to pain and scrotal swelling, and its impact and recovery in terms of breeding capabilities.

Objective of the Study

The main goal of this study was to investigate recurrent cases of spermatic cord and scrotal testis torsion in a stallion, the corresponding treatment procedures, and how these conditions affected the stallion’s breeding capabilities.

First Admission and Treatment

  • In this case study, a stallion was referred for evaluation after showing recurrent symptoms of left-sided scrotal pain and swelling for 3 years.
  • Upon investigation, the condition was identified as testicular torsion, which refers to the twisting of the spermatic cord that cuts off the blood supply to the testis.
  • The severity of the condition necessitated the removal of the left testis. After the surgery, the stallion was returned to breeding service and was able to maintain a conception rate of 82% for the next breeding season, showing a remarkable recovery.

Second Admission and Treatment

  • Two years after the initial surgery, the stallion was referred for evaluation again due to symptoms of acute right-sided scrotal pain and swelling.
  • Right-sided testicular torsion was detected this time. The surgical procedure carried out this time was different from the first as the right testis wasn’t removed but instead corrected and then sutured in place.
  • Following the second surgery, the stallion’s conception rate in the breeding season shot up to over 90%, indicating that the stallion responded well to the treatment and maintained a high fertility rate despite experiencing testicular torsion on both sides at different times.

Conclusion

  • This research article provides an insightful case study on the treatment and recovery of a stallion that suffered from recurrent testicular torsion.
  • The fact that the stallion was able to maintain high conception rates after both occurrences of the condition shows that suitable surgical intervention can effectively manage this critical condition without causing a decline in the fertility of the affected stallion.

Cite This Article

APA
Threlfall WR, Carleton CL, Robertson J, Rosol T, Gabel A. (1990). Recurrent torsion of the spermatic cord and scrotal testis in a stallion. J Am Vet Med Assoc, 196(10), 1641-1643.

Publication

ISSN: 0003-1488
NlmUniqueID: 7503067
Country: United States
Language: English
Volume: 196
Issue: 10
Pages: 1641-1643

Researcher Affiliations

Threlfall, W R
  • Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210-1089.
Carleton, C L
    Robertson, J
      Rosol, T
        Gabel, A

          MeSH Terms

          • Animals
          • Epididymis / pathology
          • Fertility
          • Horse Diseases / surgery
          • Horses
          • Male
          • Necrosis
          • Orchiectomy / veterinary
          • Recurrence
          • Spermatic Cord Torsion / surgery
          • Spermatic Cord Torsion / veterinary
          • Testis / pathology
          • Testis / surgery

          Citations

          This article has been cited 3 times.
          1. Raisi A, Davoodi F. Testicular torsions in veterinary medicine. Vet Res Commun 2022 Jun;46(2):303-313.
            doi: 10.1007/s11259-021-09873-5pubmed: 35001221google scholar: lookup
          2. Sinovich M, Monné Rodriguez J, Pieńkowska-Schelling A, Schelling C, Kelly PG. An Unusual Case of a Monorchid Horse with an Abdominally Retained Testicle. Sex Dev 2025 Apr 8;19(1):1-9.
            doi: 10.1159/000545559pubmed: 40199258google scholar: lookup
          3. Waqas MS, Arroyo E, Tibary A. Diagnostic Approach to Equine Testicular Disorders. Vet Sci 2024 May 29;11(6).
            doi: 10.3390/vetsci11060243pubmed: 38921990google scholar: lookup