Testicular ultrasound; Testicular sonogram Scrotal ultrasound is an imaging test that looks at the scrotum. It is the flesh-covered sac that hangs between the legs at the base of the penis and contains the testicles. The testicles are the male reproductive organs that produce sperm and the hormone
testosterone. They are located in the scrotum, along with other small organs, blood vessels, and a small tube called the vas deferens. The male reproductive structures include the penis, the scrotum, the testes, the epididymis, the seminal vesicles, and the prostate. Testicular ultrasound is an imaging procedure to examine the testicles and other scrotal structures. A ultrasound is performed by moving the ultrasound transducer over the scrotum. Ultrasound pictures are viewed on a monitor at the same time. Testicular ultrasound is performed to help determine the cause of testicular enlargement or the
reason for testicular pain. You lie on your back with your legs spread. The health care provider drapes a cloth across your thighs under the scrotum or applies wide strips of adhesive tape to the area. The scrotal sac will be slightly raised with the testicles lying side by side. A clear gel is applied to the scrotal sac to help transmit the sound
waves. A handheld probe (the ultrasound transducer) is then moved over the scrotum by the technologist. The ultrasound machine sends out high-frequency sound waves. These waves reflect off areas in the scrotum to create a picture. No special preparation is needed for this test. There is little
discomfort. The conducting gel may feel slightly cold and wet. A testicle ultrasound is done to: Normal ResultsThe testicles and other areas in the scrotum appear normal. What Abnormal Results MeanPossible causes of abnormal results include:
RisksThere are no known risks. You will not be exposed to radiation with this test. ConsiderationsIn certain cases, Doppler ultrasound may help identify blood flow inside the scrotum. This method can be helpful in cases of testicular torsion, because blood flow to the twisted testicle may be reduced. ReferencesGilbert BR, Fulgham PF. Urinary tract imaging: basic principles of urologic ultrasonography. In: Partin AW, Dmochowski RR, Kavoussi LR, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 4. Owen CA. Scrotum. In: Hagen-Ansert SL, ed. Textbook of Diagnostic Sonography. 8th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2018:chap 23. Sommers D, Winter T. The scrotum. In: Rumack CM, Levine D, eds. Diagnostic Ultrasound. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 22. Version InfoLast reviewed on: 4/26/2020 Reviewed by: Kelly L. Stratton, MD, FACS, Assistant Professor, Department of Urology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team. Posted: 3/19/2019 4:43:11 PM EDT Had to get an ultrasound a month ago to make sure my nuts are good. Doc said it would mostly be covered, I have blue cross and I work for the hospital. ($800/mo premium). Got the bill and it's fucking $1200!!!! My insurance only covered $224. On top of that I went to ER for massive headache and they did a CT scan which was covered under my policy and would fall under $300 co pay. Yet now that is $1200 bill as well. What the fuck am I doing wrong here? Is there a way to fight this? ETA: Called the urology place and there walk in cash price is only $559
Win a FREE Membership! Sign up for the ARFCOM weekly newsletter and be entered to win a free ARFCOM membership. One new winner* is announced every week! You will receive an email every Friday morning featuring the latest chatter from the hottest topics, breaking news surrounding legislation, as well as exclusive deals only available to ARFCOM email subscribers. How long does a testicular ultrasound take?In total, the testicular ultrasound scan should only take around 15 to 30 minutes. Results will be sent to the referring provider within a few days. What Do the Ultrasound Images Show?
How much does testicular cost?The first cost is the cost of the testicular implant or prosthesis itself, which varies but in the United States, the prices range around $2000-$3000 for each implant. For men who require 2 implants, the cost would be double.
What can I expect from a testicular ultrasound?The medical professional will move the transducer back and forth over the scrotum to take images of the testicles. The pressure from the transducer is usually light, but it may cause some discomfort if a person has an injury or swelling in the area.
How do I prepare for a testicular ultrasound?Typically, there's no special preparation necessary for a testicular ultrasound. There's no need to make dietary changes, fast, or maintain a full bladder before the exam.
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