Child’s Play: An Update on Pediatric Urological Health (NAPSA)—Urological health is usually discussed in relation to adults, yet it is extremely important to monitor in children as well. Dr. Anthony Atala, a pediatric urologist at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in North Carolina, discusses a urological concern that parents of young boys should be aware of—testicular injury. Q: What are some causes and symptoms of testicular injury? A: Any kindof trauma, such as falling on a bicycle bar, being struck by a sports ball, getting kicked or engaging in strenuous exercise can result in testicular injury. Two of the main symptomsthat should be monitored closely are significant testicular pain and swelling. Young boys maybe reluctant to tell a parent about a groin injury, so if you notice your child experiencing discomfort be sure to encourage him to tell you what may have happened, so you can monitor the injury and seek treatment within an appropriate amountof time. Q@: If a child suffers a traumato the groin area, what should a parentdo first? A: Parents should immediately assess the child for outward signs of injury, such as broken skin, bleeding or rapid swelling. If the skin is torn or if there is sig- nificant bleeding or rapid swelling, go straight to the emergency room.If bleedingis slight or if the skin is unbroken, you can apply an ice pack to the area (be sure to wrap it in a towel first—that area is extremely sensitive) and continue to monitor any swelling. Q: Why the emergency room? Whynot the pediatrician or a urologist’s office? A: Testicular injury can be very serious and result in testicular loss if not treated in time. Blunt trauma to the area could lead to a bruised [as we f igs a Young boys may bereluctant to tell parents about a groin injury. testicle, internal bleeding in the scrotum, testicular fracture or testicular rupture. Slapstick comedy may make groin injuries seem amusing, but they are no laughing matter. Manychildren have lost a testicle because too much time elapsed between when their injury occurred and whenthey were treated. Q: Whenis it necessary for a child athlete to begin wearing an athletic supporter or cup? A: Ifa child is involved in any kind of activity that could lead to groin injury, his testicles should be supported and protected. An athletic supporter binds thetesticles, keeping them stationary andclose to the body. To achieve this same result in younger children, have them weartight briefs instead of boxer shorts. Protective plastic inserts, or cups, can also be used to help prevent blunt trauma injury, and should be worn whenever possible and available. It may be possible to special order a smaller size if necessary from your local sporting goodsretailer. For more information about testicular injury, visit http://www.urol ogyhealth.org/pediatric/.
