Accuracy of color Doppler ultrasonography in acute scrotal disorders in children

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to evaluate the role of color Doppler sonography in the diagnosis of acute scrotal disorders in 30 patients. During 20 months period, patients underwent pulsed Doppler sonography of both testes and the results were compared with surgical exploration. All patients with acute scrotal conditions including pain or swelling underwent Doppler sonography of both testes, followed by surgery and close clinical follow up for at least four months. Pulsed Doppler was performed with 7.5 or 10 Mhz transducer. In 30 patients, color Doppler was also used. The testicular artery was considered to patent if Doppler shift from branches within the parenchyma could be found. Color Doppler ultrasound was a useful adjunct in the evaluation of the acute scrotal conditions when the physical findings were equivocal. Pulsed Doppler with mechanical sectors scanner was more sensitive than color Doppler. Intermittent torsion was missed with Doppler. Although ultrasonography can replace clinical judgment, it may be very helpful in the unclear cases