The acute paediatric scrotum: the role of colour doppler ultrasound

Abstract

Combined grey scale ultrasound and colour Doppler imaging of the acute paediatric scrotum provides a non-invasive means of assessing the structure and perfusion of the testis. Colour flow ultrasound is a sensitive and specific diagnostic tool for differentiating ischaemic pathology (in which blood flow rate is reduced) from inflammatory disease in which it is commonly increased. Using this technique the number of unnecessary surgical explorations of the scrotum can be reduced. The differential diagnosis of acute testicular pathology and the imaging characteristics of each disorder are described. Close collaboration between paediatric surgeons and radiologists is required to determine the optimal clinical and investigational strategy for each child.