Diagnostic value of 99mTc in scrotal scan.

The radioisotope 99mTc scans reflect the vascular flow to the testis. As a result the scan shows a distinct cold pattern when arterial profusion is compromised and a hot pattern when blood supply to the organ is increased. This is the basis for use of the technetium scrotal scan to differentiate between testicular torsion and other conditions simulating it. It can also be used to follow vascular flow in the testis after orchiopexy. To date there has been no erroneous result in this study. Although this is a new diagnostic technique and experience is still limited, it does show promise as an adjunctive tool when the differential diagnosis of testicular torsion and conditions simulating torsion is not readily apparent. Findings in other lesions of the scrotum are discussed.