Private Testicular Ultrasound

What preparation is required for an ultrasound of the scrotum?

No preparation is required for a scrotal scan.

What should I expect during the testicular ultrasound examination?

Here’s what you can expect during a testicular ultrasound examination:

• You’ll be asked to lie on your back on an exam table with your legs slightly apart. The ultrasound operator will provide a paper towel to cover your genitals.
• The sonographer or radiologist will apply a warm, water-based gel to your scrotum. This gel allows the ultrasound transducer probe to make good contact with your skin and take clear images.
• The sonographer will gently press the transducer probe against different areas of your scrotum and roll it back and forth. They may apply varying pressure to get optimal views of the testicles and internal structures.
• As the probe is moved around, you may feel some mild pressure or friction on the scrotum, but there should be no significant discomfort. 
• The sonographer will take images from several angles and orientations – front, sides, top and bottom of each testicle. If needed, they may also use Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow.
• The examination usually takes 5-10 minutes. 
• After the exam, you will be supplied with a tissue to wipe the gel, and you can get dressed. You can resume normal activities immediately afterwards.
• A digital report will be sent to you to share it with your doctor or to keep it for your records.

Understanding the Results of the testis ultrasound scan

 The sonographer or the radiologist performing your scan will discuss the finding after your scan and will provide you with a digital report for your records and to share with your doctor.

 Key points of the report will include the normalcy or abnormality of the appearance of your testicles, the presence of any cysts, lumps, or masses, and any signs of varicocele or other conditions. It is essential to ask questions during this discussion to fully comprehend your situation and the implications of the results.

Testicular ultrasound can detect several conditions, including testicular tumours, epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis), hydrocele (fluid accumulation), varicocele (enlarged veins), and testicular torsion. It’s also useful for assessing causes of infertility, such as low sperm production.

Possible Outcomes and the Next Steps for Diagnosis or Treatment

The outcomes of your testicular ultrasound could range from normal findings, indicating no further action is needed, to the identification of areas that demand additional investigation.

Here are some potential scenarios:

• Normal Results: If your ultrasound results are normal and you have no symptoms, no further action is generally required.
• Benign Conditions: Non-cancerous conditions such as cysts or varicoceles may be monitored with routine follow-up ultrasounds to ensure there are no changes.
• Suspicious Findings: If there are any suspicious areas or masses that could indicate testicular cancer or other serious conditions, your report will recommend further fast tract investigations via 2 week wait pathway.
• Other Abnormalities: If the ultrasound reveals other abnormalities such as evidence of infection or hernias, your doctor will discuss treatment options or surgery accordingly.