DIAGNOSTIC TUNICA VAGINOSCOPY IN A RODENT MODEL OF TESTICULAR TORSION

Objectives. io evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous endoscopy of the tunica vaginalis for identifying testicular torsion in a rodent m odel. Methods, One testis was randomly selected in 10 Wistar rats weig hing 500 to 600 g. Following 2 hours of 720 degrees torsion, bilateral percutaneous endoscopy of the tunic vaginalis was performed by a blin ded investigator utilizing a 70 degrees cystoscope lens through a sing le midline 3 to 4 mm scrotal cutdown incision. Results. Using this tec hnique, the blinded investigator was able to identify the torsed testi s rapidly in every case, which was distinguished by its cyanotic color and by the size and color of the testicular surface vessels. Conclusi ons. Tunica vaginoscopy is a simple, accurate, rapidly performed, mini mally invasive, diagnostic technique in this experimental model of tes ticular torsion.