US of the Penis: Beyond Erectile Dysfunction.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Urology

Background:

• High-frequency ultrasound (US) is the primary imaging modality for penile evaluation.
• It offers detailed anatomical visualization and dynamic blood flow assessment.
• US is noninvasive, cost-effective, and well-tolerated by patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the utility of ultrasound in diagnosing a spectrum of penile conditions.
• To highlight key ultrasound features, differential diagnoses, and management strategies.
• To emphasize the importance of meticulous technique for diagnostic accuracy.

Main Methods:

• Gray-scale, color, and spectral Doppler ultrasound techniques with a linear transducer.
• Pharmacologic induction of erection for specific assessments.
• Review of common and uncommon penile abnormalities and their ultrasound manifestations.

Main Results:

• Ultrasound facilitates timely diagnosis of penile emergencies like priapism and trauma.
• It is valuable in assessing vasculogenic impotence and Peyronie disease.
• Doppler US is crucial for follow-up of endovascular revascularization procedures.

Conclusions:

• Radiologists must be proficient in ultrasound techniques and penile pathologies for accurate diagnosis.
• Ultrasound is essential for managing both emergent and elective penile conditions.
• Optimized imaging techniques improve diagnostic accuracy and patient management.