Instrumentation, Technical Requirements

Ultrasound is the first imaging modality in virtually all patients with scrotal disease, and has been widely used in this field by radiologists and urologists, since its introduction in the clinical practice. Image quality, however, improved substantially in last years due to the development of new broadband high frequency probes and digital equipment. Increased spatial resolution and doppler sensitivity allow excellent depiction of the scrotal content and full evaluation of the testicular and extratesticular vasculature. New imaging modalities are available, some of which have already established clinical role, with others requiring clinical validation. This chapter introduces technical features of modern ultrasound equipment and their application to scrotal ultrasound. Specific topics discussed are characteristics of newest broadband small-part transducers, extended field of view facilities, compounding techniques, 3D US, and adaptive filtering