Sonographic Assessment of a Ruptured Testicle From a Gunshot Wound: A Case Study

Abstract

High-resolution sonography is a valuable imaging technique to evaluate scrotal trauma. Scrotal injuries can be caused by both blunt and penetrating forces, causing harm to the testicles and other scrotal contents. This case study follows the diagnosis of a gunshot victim’s testicular injury and how the use of sonography plays a major role in both the diagnosis and surveillance of testicular rupture. The initial sonogram identified mild enlargement and an irregularity of the right testicle. Hemorrhage surrounding the right testicle, soft tissue emphysema, scrotal wall edema, and some echogenic debris and/or a foreign body in the scrotum were also identified. Testicular rupture is a rare but serious injury and prompt medical attention is necessary in such cases to reduce long-term complications, including, but not limited to, infection, disability, and loss of the testicle.