Scrotal Ultrasound

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Ultrasound uses sound waves to check the scrotum, testicles, and their blood vessels. The sound waves are recorded and displayed. X-rays are not used with ultrasound. Common reasons for scrotal ultrasound are pain, trauma, lumps, and swelling. Ultrasound can spot many types of problems with the testicles.

Ultrasound sends sound waves into the body using a transducer, a hand-held device that sends and receives sound waves. After warm gel is applied to the skin, the sonographer (technologist) presses the device against the skin to obtain pictures, which then appear on a screen. Color Doppler ultrasound will also be used to check the blood flow of each testicle and nearby tissues.

You do not need to prepare for a scrotal ultrasound.

1. You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist down and you will be given a sheet to cover yourself.
2. You will lie on an exam table.
3. A warm gel will be applied to the scrotum to help the transducer make contact with your skin.
4. The sonographer then presses the transducer against the skin and sweeps it over the scrotal area to obtain the pictures.
5. The radiologist may obtain more pictures after the sonographer is done.

• Ultrasound of the scrotum is fast, painless, and easy.
• You feel the songrapher apply warm gel to the scrotum, and press the transducer against your skin.
• The transducer will be moved over your skin until all the pictures are obtained.
• There is little or no discomfort with the exam, which usually takes less than 30 minutes.

The radiologist who specializes in ultrasound will review the pictures and send the report to your doctor. You will receive your results from the doctor who ordered the test. The radiologist may discuss early findings with you when your exam is over.