Testicular ultrasounds are the primary testing method for observing and evaluating the health and structure of the male reproductive organs. Testicles are responsible for creating sperm and testosterone, the male sex hormone. The male reproductive organs are vulnerable to many abnormalities and diseases that can cause pain, swelling, infertility — even serious threats to your health and longevity.
What is the purpose of a testicular ultrasound?
Your doctor may recommend a testicular ultrasound to observe or diagnose abnormalities in the testicles. It’s usually the first test if you have a lump in your testicle and your doctor suspects testicular cancer. Your doctor may recommend a testicular ultrasound to:
- Identify the source of pain or swelling
- Detect and evaluate varicose veins
- Assess the cause of infertility
- Find the location of undescended testicles
- Verify whether a lump in your scrotum is cancerous
What are the risks associated with a testicular ultrasound?
Ultrasounds are minimally invasive procedures that will not put you at risk for any health problems. Because ultrasounds use sound waves, there is no risk of radiation exposure. However, you may experience increased pain or discomfort during the procedure if you have certain testicular issues, such as testicular torsion (when a testicle rotates and twists the cord that supplies blood to the scrotum) or an infection.
What happens during a testicular ultrasound exam?
During a scrotal ultrasound, the credentialed and highly experienced sonographers at Alaska Family Sonograms in Anchorage will lubricate the skin of the scrotum with gel, then move a transducer along the entire area to get a clear image of your internal organs. The exam uses sound waves to create an image of the testicles and the surrounding tissues in the scrotum
For more than 20 years, the experienced sonographers at Alaska Family Sonograms have performed thousands of scrotal ultrasound examinations. We are a team of highly compassionate, understanding and professional individuals who are ready to make you feel right at home on our offices. To learn more about testicular ultrasounds in Anchorage, Alaska, call 907-855-0390.