Evaluation of the Effect of Agmatine with Tc-99m Pertechnetate Scintigraphy in Experimental Testicular Torsion-Detorsion

Objective: The aim of this study is to demonstrate the protective effect of Agmatine application on testicular damage caused by unilateral testicular torsion-detortion in the rat model by Tc-99m pertechnetate testis scintigraphy. Method: Thirty male Winstar Albino rats were divided into three groups, each containing ten rats. A sham operation was performed in group 1 (control). In group 2, torsion-detorsion procedures were performed on the left testicle. In group 3, the same surgical procedures were performed as in group 2; intraperitoneally Agmatine was given 15 minutes before detorsion. Testis scintigraphy was performed with Tc-99m pertechnetate in all rats. Orchiectomies were performed for histological examination and measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) tissue levels in all experimental animals. Results: MDA levels were higher in torsion-detorsion groups (groups 1 and 2) than in the control group; in group 3, it decreased compared to group 2. Histological damage score was lower in the group given to Agmatine (group 3) compared to the group not given (group 2). In the second group, mostly 1 and 2 degree testicular injury signs were observed, however, the injuries in group 3 vary between 2-3 degrees. No significant difference was found between the groups in the uptake ratio of the testicle in testicular scintigraphy. Conclusion: In the experimental rat model, it was considered that testicular scintigraphy was not an appropriate test to evaluate the testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury. Agmatine may play an effective role in reducing ischemia-reperfusion injury in testicular torsion.