Sonographic Assessment of Fetal Male Genitalia

Abstract

The genitalia was visualized as a part of the general fetal anatomical survey during prenatal ultrasound of more than 2210 fetuses between the ages of 16 to 42 weeks. The sex detection rate for 1200 male fetuses was more than 93%. No testicular descent was present before 20 weeks but was seen as early as 22 weeks; 98% of fetuses showed descent of one or both testes at about 35 weeks. Moderate hydrocele was detected in 5% of fetuses of 30 weeks gestation or older. No abnormality was found in a patient with bilateral neonatal testicular torsion during prenatal ultrasound. The authors believe a brief examination of fetal genitalia may identify abnormalities of fetal gender and detect more serious conditions such as scrotal hernia and prenatal testicular torsion, which requires surgical intervention at birth.