Scrotal and testicular sonography uses high-frequency ultrasound to evaluate the testes, epididymis, and scrotal sac for a wide range of urologic and oncologic conditions. It is the preferred first-line imaging modality for testicular pain, swelling, and suspected mass.
Sonographers assess testicular echogenicity, size, and vascularity using color Doppler. Critical examinations include testicular torsion evaluation — where absent or asymmetric flow indicates a surgical emergency — and testicular mass characterization to distinguish benign from malignant lesions. Epididymo-orchitis, varicocele, spermatocele, and hydrocele are among the most common diagnoses. Bilateral examination with comparison of blood flow is standard.
Scrotal sonography falls under the ARDMS Small Parts (SP) specialty within the RDMS credential. Sonographers in this area work in hospital radiology departments, urology practices, and emergency imaging units. Rapid and accurate testicular torsion diagnosis is one of the most time-critical applications in the entire field of diagnostic ultrasound.