MRI Fusion Guided TP Prostate Biopsy

If either the DRE or PSA test is abnormal, a transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) biopsy may be performed. If the TRUS biopsy results are negative, the patient can be monitored with periodic PSA tests. However, if a positive DRE is found or a negative TRUS biopsy is followed by a continued elevated or rising PSA, a fusion-guided prostate biopsy may be recommended for further screening and diagnosis.

How It Works

A fusion-guided prostate biopsy uses pre-biopsy MRI images of the prostate alongside ultrasound images during the biopsy procedure. The steps include:

1. MRI Imaging: The patient first undergoes an MRI of the prostate to identify any suspicious areas.
2. Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy: The patient then has an ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy.
3. Image Fusion: During the biopsy, the MRI images are fused in real-time with the ultrasound images, providing a highly accurate, simultaneous view of the prostate.

This combination of images allows the physician to precisely visualize and evaluate suspicious areas, improving the accuracy of the biopsy. The fusion of 2D and 3D views also helps differentiate between healthy prostate tissue and potentially cancerous cells, giving the physician a clearer view of the biopsy needle’s placement.

Benefits

• Increased Accuracy: Fusion imaging enhances the ability to identify suspicious areas and target the biopsy more precisely.

Real-Time Imaging: The real-time fusion of MRI and ultrasound images provides immediate guidance, improving biopsy precision.