What to Expect from Scans and Tests: Ultrasound Scan

An ultrasound scan is a valuable tool for diagnosing and guiding treatment for various medical conditions. It is most commonly recognised as a method for monitoring pregnancy in women. However, it can also be used to check men’s testicles for any abnormalities. This is essential because it’s non-invasive and highly accurate in identifying potential issues related to testicular cancer.

The scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of your body. This allows doctors to see your organs, tissues, and blood flow without the use of radiation. A small device called a transducer is placed on the skin, which sends sound waves into the body. These waves bounce off internal structures, and the echoes are captured to create a real time image on a monitor. The procedure is painless, safe, and non-invasive.

When do you have an ultrasound scan?

An ultrasound scan is commonly used to check for testicular cancer when a lump or swelling is found in the testicle. This can help distinguish between cysts, benign (non-cancerous) lumps, or solid masses that may indicate cancer. If you notice any other unusual changes, like pain or discomfort in the testicle, your doctor may also recommend an ultrasound to assess the cause.

You will usually have a blood test, known as a tumour marker test, beforehand. This can be done in tandem with an ultrasound scan, or afterwards depending on the results of the blood test.

Find out more on what to expect from blood tests.

What is an ultrasound scan looking for?

An ultrasound scan provides detailed images of the testicles, allowing doctors to see the size, shape, and nature of any abnormalities. The scan is essentially checking for anything that looks out of the ordinary. Gel is applied to the skin of your scrotum, which helps the ultrasound waves pass through. A device called a transducer is then moved slowly over the area being examined.

This is a quick, painless and relatively simple procedure that should be done within a matter of 10-15 minutes.

Where do you have an ultrasound scan?

An ultrasound scan is typically conducted by a trained sonographer, which is a healthcare professional trained in using ultrasound equipment. It can also be performed by a urologist – a medical doctor specialising in conditions that affect the urinary tract in men, women and children.

Ultrasound scans are typically performed in hospitals, diagnostic centres, or specialised clinics. Your GP will usually refer or arrange this for you.

You can also have an ultrasound scan in:

• your GP surgery
• a private clinic
• a maternity unit

What happens next?

An ultrasound scan is not enough to confirm you have testicular cancer, even if a lump or abnormality is found. If the ultrasound suggests that a lump may be cancerous, further tests, such as an MRI scan or a biopsy, may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis. You will know the results and whether or not you need to be seen further within a matter of days/weeks.

You can find more information on MRI scans in our next blog post!