Ace the ABPath Challenge 2026 – Path to Pathology Perfection!

When considering testicular torsion, timely surgical intervention is critical for preserving testicular viability. The salvage rate refers to the likelihood of successfully saving the affected testicle following surgical detorsion.

In cases where surgery is performed within 5-6 hours of the onset of symptoms, the testicular salvage rate improves significantly, as the testicle is still likely to be viable at this early stage. Research indicates that if surgical treatment occurs within this optimal timeframe, the salvage rate can indeed rise to as high as 80-100%. This is due to the testicle having not yet sustained irreversible damage from ischemia, or lack of blood flow, which occurs when the blood supply is cut off.

Once this window of 6 hours is exceeded, the risks of permanent damage exponentially increase, leading to lower salvage rates as time progresses. Thus, the answer correctly highlights the importance of prompt medical intervention in cases of testicular torsion.