MRI SCROTUM

An MRI of the scrotum is an imaging technique that is not invasive, meaning it does not break the surface of the body. An MRI of the scrotum is done using magnets and radio waves, testicles, epididymis, spermatic cords, and surrounding soft tissues are imaged and an ultrasound is reviewed. It is particularly useful when ultrasound results are inconclusive, or further assessment of mass lesions, inflammation, or trauma is needed.  

What is an MRI of Scrotum Scan? 

This procedure makes use of a powerful magnetic field along with radiofrequency pulses to produce cross-sectional images of the scrotum and its components. It enables the discerning visualization of soft tissues, aiding in the precise diagnosis of conditions that with an ultrasound, would not be evaluated thoroughly. 

MRI encompasses the following sequences:  

• T1-weighted and T2-weighted images.  
• Fat saturation to improve the depiction of lesions.  
• Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) to assess cellularity.  
• Post-Contrast Enhanced Scans (if deemed necessary). 

• Characterizing scrotal or testicular masses.  
• Distinguish between tumours and benign lesions, such as varicocele and hydrocele.  
• Identify inflammation epididymitis or orchitis)  
• Examine the injury (Hematoma, rupture)  
• Evaluate abnormalities associated with infertility.  
• Assess post-surgery tumour recurrence. 

When and Who Needs a Scrotum MRI Scan? 

Indications:  

• Scrotal mass observed during ultrasound  
• Unexplained or chronic scrotal pain and/or swelling  
• Testicle trauma  
• Investigation of testicular cancer or metastasis  
• Suspected torsion or inflammation (ambiguous ultrasound findings)  
• Undescended testes (particularly in older age groups) 

All This is Appropriate For:  

• Elderly men experiencing testicular signs and symptoms  
• Cancer patients undergoing restaging or surveillance  
• Patients concerned about infertility due to testicular anatomy 

Benefits of a Scrotum MRI Radiology Scan

• Excellent reviewing of soft tissue structures 
• Greater precision and clarity than ultrasound in complicated cases 
• No exposure to radiation 
• Pathology of the testis is detected and located with great accuracy. 

Conditions Diagnosed with an MRI of the Scrotum Scan

• Testicular tumours Distinguishes between benign and malignant lesions. 
• Epididymitis/orchitis Inflammation of epididymis and testis. 
• Haematocele or hydrocele Accumulation of fluid or blood around the testis. 
• Testicular torsion Twisting of spermatic cord (an emergency diagnosis). 
• Varicocele Abnormally dilated veins in the scrotum. 
• Testicular trauma Evaluation of haemorrhage or rupture. 
• Cryptorchidism Evaluation of an undescended testicle. 

• Loose and comfortable clothing should be worn 
• All piercings and metallics should be removed 
• Previous scrotal ultrasound reports should be presented if they are available. 
• Does not usually require sedation, except in cases of claustrophobia 

Pre-requisites for an MRI Scrotum Scan 

• Clinical history or reference sent by a physician 
• Imaging or Surgery history in the past 
• Serum tumour markers in case testicular cancer is being investigated  
• A blood test for creatinine if contrast is planned to be used 

Best Time to Perform a Scrotum MRI Test 

• After ultrasound results that were performed previously appear inconclusive 
• For pre-surgical assessment or for staging tumours, for cancer, planning stages 
• When symptoms persist or get worse even after treatment 

Eligibility for an MRI of the Scrotum Radiology Scan 

• Most patients can undergo the examination without restrictions. 
• Refrain from using in patients with metallic implants or pacemakers unless given the green light  
• Use caution in those with severe renal impairment if the use of contrast is required  

What Happens During the MRI Scrotum Scan Procedure 

• The patient is lying in a supine position on the MRI table 
• The scrotum is stabilised with a towel or a pillow 
• Pelvic coil can be used for improved image quality 
• Duration of the scan: 30–40 minutes 
• Staying still throughout the scan is imperative, breathing freely is encouraged 

Caution During the Scrotum MRI Test 

• The use of gadolinium as a contrast agent is safe, however, it is used sparingly 
• Discussion of claustrophobia should happen prior to the scan 
• Images may be blurred with movement, so it is best to stay relaxed and motionless