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Three-Dimensional Ultrasound Visualization of the Epididymis Using a Transvaginal Probe Applied Scrotally

Submitted:

13 January 2026

Posted:

15 January 2026

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Abstract
Ultrasound is the primary imaging modality for evaluation of the scrotum and male reproductive tract. While high-frequency linear probes allow detailed assessment of testicular parenchyma, comprehensive visualization of epididymal anatomy and its spatial relationship to the testis may be limited using conventional two-dimensional imaging alone . This limitation is clinically relevant in the evaluation of male infertility, where epididymal abnormalities may contribute to obstructive processes We present a clinical image demonstrating a novel external scrotal application of a conventional three-dimensional (3D) transvaginal ultrasound probe. The images were obtained in an adult male undergoing infertility evaluation. With generous coupling gel and minimal probe pressure, the transvaginal probe was applied externally over the scrotum. High-resolution 2D images were first obtained, followed by volumetric 3D acquisition. The acquired dataset was analyzed using multiplanar reconstruction and volume-rendering techniques. This approach enabled clear visualization of the epididymal head, body, and tail, along with their anatomical continuity and relationship to the adjacent testis. The volume-rendered images provided an intuitive 3D depiction of epididymal curvature and spatial orientation, features that can be challenging to appreciate using standard linear scrotal ultrasound alone. Importantly, no patient discomfort, adverse effects, or technical complications were observed during the examination. This clinical image highlights the feasibility of repurposing a 3D transvaginal probe for external scrotal imaging to improve anatomical depiction of epididymal structures. While the technique is not intended to replace conventional scrotal ultra-sound, it may offer additional anatomical insight in selected infertility cases. This re-port serves as a hypothesis-generating illustration and supports further evaluation of its diagnostic utility in larger studies.
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Copyright: This open access article is published under a Creative Commons CC BY 4.0 license, which permit the free download, distribution, and reuse, provided that the author and preprint are cited in any reuse.
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