Diagnostics
Scrotal ultrasound
What is scrotal ultrasound?
Scrotal ultrasound, also known as testicular ultrasound, is a medical imaging examination performed in men. This technique makes it possible to visualize the scrotum and its contents, that is to say the testicles and the epididymides. Scrotal ultrasound allows for a deeper diagnosis and validation of the presence or absence of a disease.
The scrotum contains:
- The testicles, which are the organs allowing the production of spermatozoa and testosterone.
- The epididymides, which are long channels folded on themselves, contiguous to the upper surface of the testicles and which serve for the maturation and transport of the spermatozoa towards the vas deferens, joining the prostate.
- A specific liquid, naturally present in small quantities, in which testicles and epididymides are present.
How is a scrotal ultrasound performed?
- The exam usually lasts less than 30 minutes.
- The patient is lying on his back.
- A gel is applied directly to the scrotum.
- Dr. Marois gently lays the ultrasound probe on the skin and moves it to obtain different views of the scrotum and testicles. The images appear in real time on a screen.
- The ultrasound image is immediately visible on a screen that looks like a computer or television screen. The doctor monitors the screen during the examination and captures representative images for recording purposes.
- The patient must remain perfectly still so that the images obtained are clear.
- The probe also makes it possible to visualize the circulatory system. This is why the probe can sometimes be coupled to a doppler, a tool to measure blood flow.
What is the preparation before a scrotal ultrasound?
No special preparation is necessary, except to wear loose and comfortable clothes.
What are the disadvantages of a scrotal ultrasound?
There are few disadvantages to this review. Using ultrasound with no harmful effect, scrotal ultrasound is neither aggressive nor painful. In patients with a very sensitive scrotum, some discomfort can nevertheless be felt during the mobilization of the probe.
In which cases a scrotal ultrasound it performed?
In general, this additional examination is put in place when:
- One patient suffered trauma in the scrotal area.
- A patient has to swell in the scrotum.
- A patient feels pain in the scrotum.
- A suspicious mass, such as a tumor, was detected by the doctor.