Which examinations require the use of gonad shields for male patients, unless specifically requested otherwise?

Gonad shields are protective devices used in radiography to protect the reproductive organs from unnecessary radiation exposure. The use of gonad shields is especially important in examinations involving regions near the reproductive organs. In the context of the question, examinations of the pelvis, upper femora, and hips all involve areas in close proximity to male reproductive organs, making it essential to use gonad shields to minimize radiation dose.

In examining the pelvis and hips, both regions contain structures that are adjacent to the reproductive organs. The upper femora, which are located directly above the knees and connect to the pelvis, also lie in proximity to these sensitive areas. Therefore, all of these examinations necessitate the use of gonad shields to provide maximum protection to male patients.

The mention of "unless specifically requested otherwise" indicates a scenario where the physician may determine that shielding is not required for a certain clinical reason, which can happen but is not the standard practice. Therefore, since these examinations all require gonad protection unless a specific request is made, it reinforces the necessity for shielding across all listed options, leading to the conclusion that using gonad shields is appropriate in each case described in the question.