Scrotum and Testicular Ultrasonography
Norm of Scrotum and Testicular Ultrasonography
Normal size, shape, and position of scrotum and testicles; negative for cyst, foreign body, stones, or tumor.
Usage of Scrotum and Testicular Ultrasonography
Evaluation of the size, shape, and position of the scrotum and testicles; differentiation of extratesticular from intratesticular mass. Color Doppler method used for detection of testicular torsion. Evaluate scrotal pain. Detection of inguinal hernia, varicocele, tumor, trauma to the scrotum.
Description of Scrotum and Testicular Ultrasonography
Scrotum and testicular high-resolution ultrasonography (ultrasound) is the evaluation of the pelvic structures by the creation of an oscilloscopic picture from the echoes of high-frequency sound waves passing over the pelvic area (acoustic imaging). The time required for the ultrasonic beam to be reflected back to the transducer from differing densities of tissue is converted by a computer to an electrical impulse displayed on an oscilloscopic screen to create a three-dimensional picture of the pelvic contents.
Professional Considerations of Scrotum and Testicular Ultrasonography
Consent form NOT required.
Preparation
- The client should disrobe below the waist or wear a gown.
- Obtain ultrasonic gel.
- See Client and Family Teaching.
Procedure
- The client is positioned supine in bed or on a procedure table.
- The scrotum is covered with ultrasonic gel, and a lubricated transducer is passed slowly and firmly over the exterior scrotum at a variety of angles and at 1- to 2-cm intervals.
- Photographs are taken of the oscilloscopic pictures.
- The procedure takes less than 30 minutes.
Postprocedure Care
- Remove the lubricant from the skin.
- Disinfect the transducer probe by soaking in glutaraldehyde solution for 10 minutes.
Client and Family Teaching
- The procedure is painless and carries no risks.
Factors That Affect Results
- Dehydration interferes with adequate contrast between organs and body fluids.
Other Data
- Further studies may include tomography or other radiographic imaging.
