This information aims to answer any questions you may have about the ultrasound clinic you have been referred to by your GP.
Why have I been referred?
You have been referred for an ultrasound to examine a lump in your testicle. Your GP has examined you and feels that an ultrasound would provide extra information to understand the nature of the lump.
What is involved in having an ultrasound?
The sonographer will use a probe and some jelly to image the scrotum and testicles. You will need to remove the lower half of your clothes to allow them to scan your testicles. Sometimes they will scan your kidneys at the same examination.
Who will I see in the clinic?
You will see an experienced sonographer who will be able to report the images they see and give you the results. The written report will also be accessible for your GP approximately one week after the scan so if you have ongoing symptoms or are concerned, they will be able to discuss this with you.
Where do I go for the ultrasound scan?
The clinic is held at Southmead Hospital, Gate 18 in the radiology department.
How long should I expect my appointment to last?
The appointment for the scan usually lasts about 20 minutes.
What happens if there are abnormal findings on the ultrasound scan?
There are different causes of testicular lumps or swelling – cysts, fluid collections, hernias, infections but the important thing to rule out or find and treat is a tumour. Ultrasound scans are very good at identifying if a tumour is present.
If the sonographer is concerned that a tumour may be present, you will be informed at the ultrasound clinic and will arrange for you to be seen by a urologist within the next 48 hours at a dedicated fast track urology clinic. This clinic is held at Gate 36 in Southmead.
At this appointment, the urologist will review the findings on the scan, take a history and examine you. If they are concerned that the lump is a tumour you will be fast-tracked to have treatment for this and will have the opportunity to talk to a nurse specialist.
Useful contacts
Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
To make comments or raise concerns about the Trust’s services, please contact PALS on 0117 414 4569 or email PALS@nbt.nhs.uk.
NHS 111 Service
Offers health information and advice from specially trained nurses over the phone 24 hours a day.
Telephone number: 111
If you or the individual you are caring for need support reading this leaflet please ask a member of staff for advice.