Contrast-enhanced ultrasound findings in testicular torsion and non-testicular torsion

J Med Ultrason (2001). 2024 Jan;51(1):133-138. doi: 10.1007/s10396-023-01384-x. Epub 2023 Nov 23.

Abstract

Purpose: Testicular torsion requires emergency surgery; thus, prompt and correct diagnosis is very important. Ultrasound with color Doppler is usually the first-choice modality for diagnosis; however, skill and experience are required for confident diagnosis. Recently, contrast-enhanced ultrasound for the diagnosis of testicular torsion has been reported, but there have been only a few reports. This study aimed to compare contrast-enhanced ultrasound findings in cases of testicular torsion and non-testicular torsion.

Methods: Patients who underwent contrast-enhanced ultrasound for acute scrotum at our institution between April 2010 and January 2023 were divided into testicular torsion (n = 17) and non-testicular torsion (n = 16) groups. The respective contrast-enhanced ultrasound findings were retrospectively examined and compared.

Results: In 16 out of 17 cases of testicular torsion, the parenchyma of the affected testis was not enhanced. In the remaining case, reduced contrast enhancement was observed; however, it was still notably less than that observed on the unaffected testis. On the other hand, in all cases of non-testicular torsion (n = 16), the parenchyma of the affected testis was notably enhanced.

Conclusion: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound is considered an easy and accurate method for diagnosing testicular torsion.

Keywords: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound; Diagnosis; Testicular torsion; Ultrasound.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Male
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Scrotum / diagnostic imaging
  • Spermatic Cord Torsion* / diagnostic imaging
  • Testis / diagnostic imaging
  • Ultrasonography