Introduction

At Dr. Andrew Sun, we understand that issues concerning penile health can be sensitive and significantly impact your quality of life. We are proud to be one of the very few centers in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area offering specialized Penile Duplex Ultrasound examinations. This advanced diagnostic tool provides crucial insights into the underlying causes of various penile conditions, enabling accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

What is a Penile Duplex Ultrasound?

A Penile Duplex Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) combined with Doppler technology. This allows your healthcare provider to:

  • Visualize the internal structures of the penis: Including the corpora cavernosa (the spongy tissues responsible for erections) and the tunica albuginea (the surrounding sheath).
  • Measure blood flow: Doppler ultrasound specifically assesses the speed and direction of blood flowing into and out of the penis, both in a non-erect state and often after medication is given to help induce an erection.

This detailed view of anatomy and blood flow dynamics is essential for diagnosing conditions that may not be apparent through a physical exam alone.

30%

of men at age thirty have some degree of ED, increasing to 70% by age 70.

30 min

The amount of time that a penile duplex ultrasound procedure takes.

Why Might You Need a Penile Duplex Ultrasound?

This test is a valuable diagnostic tool for men experiencing various symptoms or conditions, including:

Erectile dysfunction

Inability to achieve or maintain an erection

Suspected venous leakage

Veins in the penis do not properly constrict to trap blood during erection

Peyronie’s disease

Penile curvature caused by scar tissue (plaques)

Penile Abnormalities

such as lumps, bumps, pain or structural concerns

What to Expect from the Procedure

We strive to make your experience as comfortable and informative as possible. Here’s what typically happens during a Penile Duplex Ultrasound at our DFW office:

Usually, no special preparation is needed, but specific instructions will be provided if required.

You will lie comfortably on an examination table. A trained and certified ultrasound technician will perform the scan using a handheld device (transducer) and a special gel applied to the penis. Initial images and blood flow measurements may be taken in the non-erect state.

To accurately assess blood flow dynamics related to erections, a medication (vasodilator) is often gently injected into the side of the penis using a very fine needle. This helps relax blood vessels and induce an erection. While this may sound daunting, it is generally well-tolerated and essential for diagnostic accuracy. The technician will continue taking measurements as the erection develops.

The entire procedure typically takes about 30 minutes.

Your privacy and comfort are paramount throughout the process.

Physician Consultation and Results

Following the ultrasound performed by our skilled technician, you will have a dedicated consultation with one of our Men’s Health clinicians. Our integrated approach ensures you receive not just the test, but also immediate expert interpretation and a clear path forward. During this consultation, the physician will:

  • Review the ultrasound images and blood flow measurements with you.
  • Explain the findings in clear, understandable terms.
  • Discuss the implications for your specific condition (ED, Peyronie’s, etc.).
  • Recommend appropriate next steps or treatment options based on the results.

Take Control of Your Penile Health

If you are experiencing Erectile Dysfunction, penile curvature, or other penile concerns, a Penile Duplex Ultrasound may provide the answers needed for effective treatment.

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