A cross-sectional study to estimate the role of scrotal and transrectal ultrasound in male infertility

Abstract

Background: Male infertility accounts for nearly half of all infertility cases worldwide, and semen analysis alone cannot identify structural abnormalities in the male reproductive tract. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the role of scrotal and transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) in detecting pathological abnormalities in infertile males with abnormal semen parameters. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 65 patients with abnormal semen analysis at Government Stanley Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, between April 2021 and March 2022. All patients underwent scrotal ultrasonography using a high-frequency transducer and TRUS to evaluate the testes, epididymis, spermatic cord, prostate, seminal vesicles, and vas deferens. Results: The mean age of the patients was 31.3±4.6 years, with most patients belonging to the 21–30-year age group (33 [50.8%]). Varicocele was the most common ultrasonographic abnormality, identified in 26 (40.0%) patients, including left-sided varicocele in 14 (21.5%) and bilateral varicocele in 12 (18.4%) patients. Hydrocele was observed in 6 (9.2%) patients, epididymal cyst in 5 (7.7%), dilated vas deferens in 4 (6.2%), and dilated seminal vesicle in 3 (4.6%) patients. Reduced sperm volume was the most common semen abnormality (19 [29.2%] patients). Varicocele was significantly associated with reduced testicular volume (P<0.05). Conclusion: Scrotal and TRUS are valuable imaging modalities for identifying potentially correctable abnormalities in men with infertility.