A cost-effective ultrasound model for demonstrating the whirlpool sign in testicular torsion
Testicular torsion is a urological emergency requiring rapid diagnosis to prevent testicular loss, with the whirlpool sign on ultrasound being a critical indicator. In resource-limited settings, access to specialised ultrasound training is often constrained. To address this, we developed a cost-effective, reusable ultrasound training model that replicates the whirlpool sign using easily accessible materials. Our model consists of a boiled egg and coiled tubing set in gelatine, with iodine simulating blood flow. Emergency Medicine residents used the model during hands-on training sessions. This model offers a simple yet effective way to improve diagnostic skills in resource-constrained settings, potentially enhancing early detection and outcomes for testicular torsion.
Authors
- Abdullah E. Laher (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3306-7389)
- Ahmed Adam (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9069-3282)
- Hanlie Dreyer (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8220-9630)
- Izak Petrus Scholtz
Institutions
- University of the Witwatersrand (ZA)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Journal of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa
- Published
- 2025-04-15
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.4102/jcmsa.v3i1.181
- Primary Topic
- Testicular diseases and treatments
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00