Prostate Fusion Biopsy
An advanced procedure that integrates magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with ultrasound, revolutionizing the biopsy process for improved accuracy.
In recent years, prostate cancer has become an epidemic, ranking as the most prevalent cancer among men. Technological advancements in diagnosing and treating prostate cancer have notably decreased mortality rates and minimized complications associated with traditional treatments like open prostatectomy with an incision.
The latest imaging technique for cancer detection is multiparametric MRI of the prostate, with the final diagnosis always confirmed by biopsy. Conventional prostate biopsy involves obtaining tissue through the rectum (transrectally) while simultaneously using rectal ultrasound imaging of the prostate. The disadvantage, however, is that the transrectal ultrasound often fails to detect and visualize a suspicious area and this has led to the development of modern biopsy techniques.
Now, multiparametric imaging can effectively visualize cancer, thus improving detection capabilities.
Fusion Transperineal Biopsy of the prostate is the most modern, accurate, and safe technique for diagnosing prostate cancer. Utilizing specialized software, multiparametric MRI images of the patient are fused with ultrasound images of the prostate, enabling precise identification and mapping of suspicious foci down to millimeter accuracy for targeted biopsies.
How is it performed?
Initially, the patient undergoes a multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), during which suspicious foci are identified.
With the innovative Fusion technology, during the ultrasound biopsy, the suspicious findings identified by the magnetic resonance imaging are seamlessly integrated into the ultrasound image. This enables the doctor to precisely pinpoint and target the previously imperceptible suspicious areas using a specialized ultrasound head.
An advancement in biopsy procedures involves shifting from rectal sampling to obtaining samples from the skin of the perineum. This modification not only enhances diagnostic precision but primarily diminishes the infection risk associated with the transrectal approach. The updated technique eliminates the need for hospitalization, allowing patients to return home and resume their activities on the same day.
Upon confirmation of the diagnosis, the doctor initially gathers crucial insights into the type and aggressiveness of the cancer through the histological analysis of the biopsy.
Then, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive imaging examination of the entire body to rule out the presence of metastases. In the absence of metastases, the disease is localized in the prostate, enabling a complete and immediate cure with treatment focused on the prostate itself. In cases of metastases or local spread beyond the prostate, a combination of treatments may be necessary.
*Fusion Prostate Biopsy is performed only at the Glyfada Healthspot.
