Acute scrotal ultrasound: a practical guide

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this article is to provide a practical review of common ultrasound (US) findings in patients presenting with acute scrotal pain. Methods We performed a literature search and reviewed numerous US cases archived in the radiology department of a large university hospital to find examples that illustrate the common US findings encountered in acute scrotal pain. Results We reviewed the literature and provided several practical examples of common US findings in patients presenting with acute scrotal pain. Conclusion Scrotal US plays a pivotal role in the evaluation of acute scrotal pain and allows proper triage of patients for conservative, medical, or surgical management due to its ability to rapidly differentiate intra versus extratesticular pathology, determine extent of trauma, and assess parenchymal perfusion.