The role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the evaluation of scrotal trauma: a review

Abstract

Testicular trauma is common, usually trivial and rarely requires hospital attendance, but if it does, then imaging becomes essential as scrotal assessment may be difficult due to pain and/or scrotal disruption. Ultrasound (US) assumes a crucial role as other cross-sectional modalities have a limited use in the acute presentation. Despite the acceptable accuracy of conventional US techniques, there are limitations which hinder a thorough evaluation, critically the assessment of tissue viability, crucial for clinical management and prognosis. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has been shown to offer improved flow visualisation and tissue perfusion compared with conventional Doppler techniques. CEUS can accurately and confidently demonstrate the viability of testicular parenchyma, delineate fracture lines and haematomas and guide treatment for testis-sparing surgery or orchidectomy. The purpose of this review is to present the literature, familiarise physicians with the principles of CEUS and findings of scrotal trauma and illustrate the main abnormalities through characteristic and educative cases.