TORSION OF THE SPERMATIC CORD IN THE NEWBORN

Abstract
Although there are but few reported instances of torsion of the spermatic cord in the newborn, the occurrence of two such cases in our practice within nine months has led us to believe that the condition may occur more commonly than the published data indicate. If so, this would substantiate our impression that undiagnosed torsion is one common basis for unilateral atrophic testicle so frequently encountered in urologic practice. We feel justified in reporting our two cases in order that physicians may become more aware of the condition, since atrophy or suppurative gangrene can be prevented only by early diagnosis and the knowledge that such a condition occurs. Search of the literature reveals that ours apparently represent the fourth and fifth cases to be reported in which torsion was observed during the first day of life. REPORT OF CASES Case 1.— Baby D. T. was delivered by cesarean section at