What is the recommended follow-up for a patient suspected of having testicular torsion?

Testicular torsion is a surgical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent irreversible damage to the testicle. The recommended follow-up for a patient suspected of having testicular torsion is urgent referral to the emergency department. This is because time is critical in such cases; testicular torsion can lead to loss of the affected testicle if not addressed within a few hours.

Immediate evaluation and surgical correction are necessary to untwist the spermatic cord and restore blood flow to the testicle. By referring the patient to the emergency department as soon as possible, healthcare providers ensure that the patient receives timely treatment that can salvage the testicle.

Other choices, such as referring to a urologist within 48 hours, are inappropriate in the context of testicular torsion, where immediate action is vital. Prescribing ibuprofen for pain does not address the underlying issue and could delay necessary surgical treatment. Ordering a testicular ultrasound might provide relevant information but would also cause delay; the priority should be to expedite surgical evaluation and intervention instead.