Preventative care is one of the most important ways to avoid serious health concerns. So, as we usher in June, Men’s Health Month, we’re faced with the following worrying statistics:
- More than 60% of men don’t go to the doctor even when they suspect they have a serious illness according to the Cleveland Clinic
- Men are 33% less likely than women to have visited a doctor within the last year according to the CDC
- Men are three times as likely as women to have gone without a visit to a doctor or healthcare provider within the previous five years according to the CDC
While many medical issues have found a spotlight and steady flow of awareness and education in the mainstream media and public dialogue, testicular health hasn’t quite found its footing. Below-the-belt abnormalities can’t remain under wraps, though, especially when diagnostic imaging can provide a safe, low risk, and noninvasive path to answers.
New Frontier is spending this month increasing awareness, conversation, and access to imaging for men.
Here’s what you need to know:
Testicular and scrotal ultrasound (CPT code 76870) is typically used for four reasons:
- Scanning testicular lumps to see if they’re solid, fluid-filled, and determine size and location
- Evaluation of testicular torsion, which is an emergency medical condition that occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted
- Evaluation of blood flow to confirm the diagnosis of epididymitis
- Initial evaluation to demonstrate abnormalities that may contribute to male infertility.
Ultrasounds are not painful. In the case of scrotal/testicular ultrasounds, they take less than 30 minutes, and can often provide the visuals necessary to diagnose and resolve painful conditions, like testicular torsion and epididymitis.
Furthermore, scanning of testicular lumps can be lifesaving. Testicular cancer is noted to be the most common malignant cancer among men aged 15-44 years, and incidences are on the rise for unknown reasons.
In-office imaging from New Frontier allows patients to follow up on sensitive health conditions in a familiar, comfortable setting. By having our sonographers come directly to the practice office or clinic, we avoid patients’ having to go to a third-party imaging center, closing the care loop and lessening client attrition.
Contact your health care provider to learn more. If they recommend a scrotal ultrasound, ask them to contact New Frontier Mobile Diagnostics at (913) 428-9488, so you can receive quality, affordable answers.