What does it show
The doctor measures the volume of the testicles (a decrease is a factor in infertility), assesses the homogeneity of the parenchyma (hypoechoic foci require the exclusion of a tumor), appendages (thickening and cysts in epididymitis), the volume of fluid (hydrocele), the diameter of the veins of the pampiniform plexus lying down and when straining - reflux and veins more than 2.5-3 mm confirm varicocele and its degree. Doppler in acute pain distinguishes between torsion (no blood flow - emergency surgery) and orchiepididymitis (increased blood flow). Based on the results, the urologist-andrologist plans treatment - from observation to microsurgical varicocelectomy.
Indications
- pain, swelling, enlargement of the scrotum - exclusion of torsion, inflammation, tumor;
- varicocele - diagnosis and degree (with Valsalva maneuver);
- infertility - size and structure of testicles, appendages;
- trauma to the scrotum, formation, dropsy (hydrocele);
- control after operations (varicocele, hydrocele).
Why ultrasound
Ultrasound is a safe imaging method without radiation: suitable for children, pregnant women and for repeated monitoring. The doctor sees organs in real time, assesses their structure, size and blood flow (in Doppler mode), and a conclusion with measurements is issued immediately after the study. The information content depends on the training and experience of the specialist; In the clinics below, ultrasound examinations are performed by ultrasound diagnostic doctors using expert-class devices.
