Dynamic radionuclide scanning of the testis in acute scrotal conditions

The role of dynamic radionuclide scanning of the testis has been assessed in 45 patients presenting with acute testicular pain or swelling. The technique is a simple, safe and rapid method for assessing testicular blood flow; the results correlate closely with the clinical course or the findings at surgical exploration. Decreased uptake is diagnostic of testicular ischaemia resulting from acute torsion of the spermatic cord. A resolved torsion may not be detected because testis is no longer ischaemic and may actually show increased uptake due to reactive hyperaemia.