Procedure | Ultrasound of the testis

Procedure

The ultrasound examination of the testis is similar to most ultrasound examinations of the rest of the body. In most cases, a specialist in urology, radiology or, if necessary, a specialist in pediatrics (in children) will examine the testicle with an ultrasound machine. For this purpose, the person to be examined must undress the testicle and get onto an examination couch.

In order for the ultrasound device to work, a clear gel is applied to the ultrasound probe. The testicle can then be examined. In order to be able to fully assess the structures, the ultrasound probe is also held onto other surrounding areas.

Depending on the clinical picture, a certain amount of pressure can be applied to the testicle. However, this should, if at all, at most be experienced as unpleasant and is usually not painful. The entire examination normally takes a maximum of 30 minutes. Depending on the indication, the examination may take only a few minutes.After the examination, a final interview is held with the examining physician, in which he usually explains the observations of the ultrasound and still images taken during the examination. If the examination took place in the hospital, the treating family doctor or urologist is usually sent an examination report, in which he or she is informed about the results of the examination and suggestions on how to proceed.

Is the examination harmful?

The ultrasound examination of the testicle is considered harmless. An ultrasound examination does not involve the use of harmful radiation and works solely with sound waves. These penetrate structures of varying density in different ways and are partly reflected back to the ultrasound probe.

Sensitive structures of the testis cannot be damaged by the ultrasonic waves. The production of semen and sperm is also not affected by an ultrasound examination. In addition, the examination is not painful, but can at most be perceived as unpleasant due to the pressure exerted by the ultrasound probe.