Trauma to the Scrotum

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Feb 26, 2015/ 0 Comments / in General Medical Posts / by
Trauma to the Scrotum

Trauma to the Scrotum

Reasons for Testicular Pain ImageTrauma to the scrotum could be the result of various traumatic mechanisms. A kind of blunt or penetrating trauma to the testicles, it may be experienced in the form of swelling in the scrotum along with intratesticular and scrotal hematoma. The patient may also experience varying degrees of scrotal wall ecchymosis.

– The most common type of scrotal trauma is caused by blunt force, which is often the result of multi system injury or testicular dislocation. Such trauma is associated with injuries from motor vehicle collision, kicking to the groin, or any injury during athletic activities.

– Penetrating trauma is the less common type of scrotal injury, caused with sharp objects in the form of stab wounds or gunshot wounds.

A direct blow to the scrotum may cause only temporary pain. The severe forms of trauma are the result of testicular injuries.


Sonography for Diagnosis

Hot Water on TesticlesSonographic imaging is used to determine the different types of scrotal trauma. Blunt traumatic injury could be viewed in sonographic imagery in the form of distorted echo texture, loss of normal testicular outline, and complex hydrocele, which may be signs of a fractured testicle.

In some patients, an irregular fracture plane, hyperemia, or scrotal wall edema are identified in sonography.

Blunt scrotal trauma may result from the compression of the scrotum against the pubic bone. Though uncommon in children, penetrating or serious scrotal trauma can occur from animal bites, falls, bicycle or handlebars. The testicles may rupture during sporting activities. Blunt injuries from athletic or sporting activities, falls, kicks, assault, or industrial/automobile accident are often reported in patients below 50 years of age. In adolescents, gunshot wounds account are the most common causes of penetrating trauma.

The scrotum sac contains testicles and parts of spermatic cord, with two cavities for testicles. The doctor will look into the patient’s medical history and try to find if the patient ever experienced any bloody penile discharge or has a pre-existing genital pathology, including genitourinary surgery or infection.

If the patient passes blood in the urine, the doctor will perform a digital exam of the prostate and obtain a urinalysis. In cases where there is pain or swelling, the doctor may suggest a testicular scan or doppler ultrasound study to determine the severity of scrotal trauma and need for operative intervention. Scrotal support, bed rest, and a cold pack may help in cases when urologic intervention is not required. It is important that the patient follows up for urologic consultation.

Severe testicular trauma may result in a serious injury and cause extreme pain, requiring surgical intervention.