The testicles are a pair of male reproductive organs that hang in a pouch below the penis. Testicles are responsible for the production of sperm. A single sperm is capable of fertilizing an egg to produce a new life. However, the testicles will produce millions of sperm which will pass to the penis during any form of sexual activity such as intercourse or masturbation. The testicular pouch hangs below the body because the sperm need to be stored at a temperature slightly lower than the normal body temperature. During especially warm days, the sac hangs lower than normal. During cold days, the sac will hang closer to the body to share some of the body heat.
There are a few different conditions that can affect the testicles. These conditions include cancer, blockages and testicular torsion. Testicular torsion is a condition where the testicle twists within its sac. This leads to the development of a twist in the canal that leads sperm out of the body. Testicular torsion is extremely painful and may need to be surgically corrected. In some cases, testicular torsion is self resolving, especially if the patient wears supportive underwear.
An ultrasound image is one that is produced using high frequency sound waves. These high frequency sound waves pass through the thinner tissues of the body. The waves tend to bounce off thicker tissues. Using an ultrasound, a doctor can produce an image of the internal structures within the body. Under further examination, the internal structure of these structures can also be examined.
Testicular ultrasound radiographics refers to the process of conducting a testicular scan. As mentioned above, the testicles may be damaged by cancer or certain other conditions. Testicular ultrasound radiographics are conducted to check the structure of the testicles. Testicular ultrasound radiographics may be slightly uncomfortable for the patient as the cold ultrasound gel will be placed on the testicular sac. The doctor may also adjust the sac and apply pressure to it for the sake of image clarity.
The doctor may check for a testicular cyst through radiographics or for testicular torsion through radiographics. The testicular ultrasound radiographics procedure is relatively quick and can be performed on an outpatient basis. If the patient is in extreme pain, then he will be admitted to the hospital for treatment. There is minimal preparation needed for testicular ultrasound radiographics. The patient may need to have some of the pubic hair removed in the clinic itself if it interferes with the scanning probe.