MRI Fusion Guided Prostate Biopsy - Steinberg Urology, Montreal

WHAT IS A PROSTATE MRI FUSION GUIDED BIOPSY?

MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging, a test that creates a detailed image of an area inside the body. An MRI provides a more detailed image than the ultrasound procedure, and allows doctors to spot parts of the prostate that don’t look healthy and should be examined with a biopsy needle. A hybrid imaging method can be used in which the MR images are fused with the real-time ultrasound images — an approach known as MRI/TRUS fusion biopsy. This approach has the advantage of using the superior imaging of the MRI coupled with easier-to-use ultrasound guidance and can be done in our clinic.

At Steinberg Urology we routinely offer a more comprehensive biopsy approach, a systematic MRI – Fusion Guided Biopsy. We are one of the few clinics in Quebec that offer MRI Fusion Guided Prostate Biopsy.

MRI/Ultrasound fusion guided biopsy combines a specialized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan with an ultrasound image to help urologists precisely target the area of the prostate that needs to be biopsied. This approach allows our doctors to ensure they sample the exact site in the prostate where there is concern for cancer.

You may be a candidate for a fusion biopsy if you’ve had:

An elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) score
An abnormal finding on you digital rectal exam (DRE)
A history of negative traditional biopsies with a continued concern for cancer

HOW IS IT DONE?

Prostate biopsies are always being performed under transrectal ultrasound guidance. For this, the urologist will insert an ultrasound probe into the patient’s anus; this allows visualization of the prostate.

Once the probe is placed in the rectum, the biopsy is performed with a spring-driven needle core biopsy device, or biopsy gun. Your doctor will be using the MRI and ultrasound images to watch where the biopsy needles are going. You may feel some discomfort or mild pain when the ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum. Local anesthesia is used to ease the discomfort.

Prior to the procedure day the MRI images are loaded to the computer that is linked to the ultrasound machine. The images are then mapped by the radiologist or urologist

RESULTS

NORMAL

The prostate gland tissue samples look normal under the microscope. There are no signs of infection or cancer.

ABNORMAL

There are signs of an abnormal non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland ( benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH), tuberculosis, lymphoma, or rectal or bladder cancer.
If the test finds prostate cancer cells, a grade (Gleason score) will be given. Your doctor will discuss this with you. The Gleason score is a tool for predicting how fast-growing the cancer is.

RISKS

Blood in the sperm and urine is common in the days after the procedure, but usually goes away within a week or two.
Blood in the feces is fairly common in the days after the procedure.
Infection is very rare, but can be severe if untreated. If you experience signs of infection such as fever and chills within a few days of the procedure, notify your physician immediately or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
While internal hemorrhage is very rare, it may require surgery or a catheter procedure if severe.
Rarely, urine retention, or the temporary inability to pass urine, can occur due to blockage of the urethra. This is relieved by the insertion of a sterile rubber tube known as a catheter into the urethra to relieve the blockage.

Many men from across Quebec and Ontario choose Steinberg Urology for MRI ultrasound fusion guided biopsy. In addition to our world-class technology, our urologists have years of experience and a commitment to excellence.

Our modern facility and patient-centred philosophy will ensure you have a positive experience at every turn. Let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness in a professional, clinical setting.

MRI ultrasound fusion guided biopsy CAN BE ONE OF THE EFFICIENT TOOLS TO DIAGNOSE THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS

Condition

Prostate Cancer

LET'S START TALKING !

At Steinberg Urology we pride ourselves on our compassionate care we offer to those facing challenges that affect their quality of life. Our urologists have years of experience and a commitment to excellence.

If you need to discuss this sensitive medical concern, schedule a consultation at our clinic in a safe confidential environment. Let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness in a professional setting.

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WHAT IS A PROSTATE MRI FUSION GUIDED BIOPSY?

HOW IS IT DONE?