MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Testicle ultrasound

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Testicle ultrasound

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test How the test will feel	Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are Special considerations

Illustrations

Male reproductive anatomy

Tesitcular ultrasound

Alternative names Return to top

Scrotal ultrasound; Testicular sonogram

Definition Return to top

The testicles are the male reproductive organs that produce sperm and the hormone testosterone. They are located in the scrotum (the flesh-covered sac that hangs between the legs at the base of the penis).

Testicle ultrasound is an imaging procedure to examine the testicles and other scrotal structures. The ultrasound machine sends out high-frequency sound waves, which reflect off scrotal structures to create a picture.

There is no ionizing radiation exposure with this test. Ionizing radiation procedures such as X-rays carries a small cancer risk and may damage sperm, but this test does not.

How the test is performed Return to top

You will be lying on your back with your legs spread. The health care provider will then drape a cloth or apply wide strips of adhesive tape across your thighs under the scrotum. The scrotal sac will then be slightly elevated with the testicles lying side by side.

A clear, water-based conducting gel is applied to the scrotal sac to help with the transmission of the sound waves. The ultrasound transducer (a handheld probe) is then moved over the scrotum.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

Adults:
No special preparation is necessary for this test.

Children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your teen, see adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years). This test is seldom performed on children younger than 12.

How the test will feel Return to top

There is little discomfort. The conducting gel may feel slightly cold and wet.

Why the test is performed Return to top

The ultrasound is done to help determine the cause of testicular enlargement or the reason for testicular pain.

Normal Values Return to top

The testicles and other scrotal structures are normal in appearance.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Abnormal results may indicate a benign cyst (an abnormal sac containing fluid), a testicular tumor (abnormal tissue growth which may or may not be cancerous), an area of infection with or without abscess formation, a testicular torsion, or another problem.

What the risks are Return to top

There are no documented risks. No ionizing radiation exposure is involved.

Special considerations Return to top

In certain instances the use of Doppler ultrasound may be useful to identify blood flow within scrotal structures. For example, this is very helpful in the assessment of testicular torsion.

Update Date: 1/21/2003

Updated by: Benjamin Taragin, M.D., Department of Radiology, Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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