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.

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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
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article

A cost-effective ultrasound model for demonstrating the whirlpool sign in testicular torsion

Abdullah E. Laher, Ahmed Adam, Hanlie Dreyer, Izak Petrus Scholtz
Journal of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa
Testicular diseases and treatments
article

A cost-effective ultrasound model for demonstrating the whirlpool sign in testicular torsion

Abdullah E. Laher, Ahmed Adam, Hanlie Dreyer, Izak Petrus Scholtz
article en

Abstract

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.

Journal of the Colleges of Medicine of South AfricaVol. 3(1)
University of the Witwatersrand (ZA)
Openalex Percentile: Top 87%
Testicular diseases and treatments
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A cost-effective ultrasound model for demonstrating the whirlpool sign in testicular torsion — Abdullah E. Laher, Ahmed Adam, et al. · Journal of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (2025) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS