Testicular Ultrasound

 A testicular ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging test used to evaluate the testicles and scrotum. During the ultrasound procedure, a transducer, or ultrasound wand, is passed back and forth over the scrotum to gather the images. . This procedure is relatively painless although if experiencing testicular pain, there may be some mild discomfort felt.

Indications for a Testicular Ultrasound

A testicular ultrasound can help a provider evaluate the following:

● Diagnose pain, infection or inflammation in the genital area

● Evaluate a mass or lump felt in the testicles

● Guide a needle during a testicular biopsy

● Assess an injury

● Rule out structural abnormality

● Locate a testicle that has not descended into the scrotum

● Identify fluid, blood or pus in the genital area

 

The Testicular Ultrasound Procedure

There are no preparations needed to prepare for the exam. Before the procedure begins, the patient will be asked to remove his clothing from the waist down including underwear (socks and shoes may be kept on).The technologist performing the ultrasound will have the patient lie down on an examination table with his legs spread slightly apart.Towels are used to elevate the scrotum and  ultrasound gel is then applied to the scrotum. The technician will press the transducer down on the scrotum and move it back and forth to capture the images.  The patient should lie still during the procedure and may be asked to hold his breath.  The patient may also be asked to stand and to bear down like having a bowel movement.  This can be helpful to evaluate for the presence of varicoceles.  There may be some mild tenderness felt during the procedure, particularly if the patient has testicular pain.  The procedure takes approximately 20 minutes to complete.  The images are then read by the radiologist and the report provided to your health care provider.