An Uncommon Cause of Testicular Infarct: A Case Report and Review of the Literature of Testicular Infarcts From Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair

Abstract

Background

Testicular ischemia requires timely diagnosis and definitive management to avoid serious consequences such as orchiectomy. It is almost always caused by testicular torsion; however, there are other causes to be aware of.

Case Report

A 32-year-old man developed testicular ischemia following a laparoscopic robotic-assisted inguinal hernia repair with preperitoneal mesh. The ischemia progressed to a fully infarcted testicle with no evidence of torsion on subsequent surgical exploration. He ultimately did require an orchiectomy.

Why should an Emergency Physician be aware of this?

While extremely rare, testicular ischemia or infarct must be considered in patients presenting with testicular pain shortly after inguinal hernia repair. Emergent surgical evaluation and loosening of the hernia mesh may be required to salvage the testicle.