Testicular rupture: Simplifying the diagnosis

Abstract

Objective:

To review the use of ultrasound imaging in the diagnosis of testicular rupture and in relation to current guidelines.

Methods:

Data was retrospectively collected for all patients diagnosed with testicular rupture at a major trauma centre between 2011 and 2018. Data included patient demographics, mechanism of trauma, specific findings on ultrasound and outcomes. On review of ultrasound imaging, specific findings identified include a breach in the tunica albuginea (currently advised in guidelines), heterogenicity and contour loss.

Results:

Eight patients were identified with average age 37 years old, mechanism of trauma was 50%, 37.5% and 12.5% for motorcycle road traffic collision, sporting injury and workplace injury respectively. A breach of tunica albuginea was identified on ultrasound in 65% of cases, compared with 100% of cases showing contour loss and heterogenicity. Of the 87.5% patients who were managed surgically one needed orchidectomy (and later testosterone replacement).

Conclusion:

Guidelines have varied on how to use ultrasound imaging in diagnosing a clinically difficult condition. Our case series demonstrates that diagnosing testicular rupture by looking for more easily identifiable characteristics (heterogenicity and contour loss) than currently recommended in the guidelines (breech in the tunica albuginea) will aid diagnosis and patient pathway and improve outcomes.

Level of evidence:

5