Scrotal ultrasound

Since its development in the late 1970s, scrotal ultrasound has been used successfully to diagnose and evaluate many pathologic processes. At present, except for evaluation of a few entities, it is the diagnostic imaging modality of choice. Differentiation of normal from abnormal scrotal contents is possible with great accuracy. The technique is capable of differentiating cystic from solid lesions and testicular from extratesticular disease with an accuracy approaching 100%. It has also been used successfully for evaluation of some causes of male infertility and various congenital abnormalities. Evaluation of spermatic cord torsion and undescended testes is generally better done with other techniques. Scrotal ultrasound, however, is still used as a complementary, but not the primary, study for these diagnoses.