Fusion Prostate Biopsy
What is a fusion prostate biopsy?
A fusion prostate biopsy is a test that combines multiple technologies to guide your doctor in the process of performing a prostate biopsy. Your Skyline Urology doctor uses MRI and ultrasound to detect specific areas of your prostate that show potential for cancer.
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Although prostate cancer often goes unnoticed in the early stages, there are a few symptoms to look out for. They include:
- Difficulty urinating
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pelvic pain and discomfort
- Slow stream when urinating
- Blood in semen
- Incontinence
A fusion prostate biopsy can provide you with an accurate look at your prostate health. To schedule your biopsy, book an appointment at Skyline Urology by phone or online today.
Who needs a fusion prostate biopsy?
Your doctor typically recommends a fusion prostate biopsy after multiple prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests. PSA testing uses a sample of your blood to test the levels of prostate-specific antigen. If multiple tests produce worrisome results, a biopsy is the next step.
Traditional biopsies rely on ultrasound to test tissue from random parts of the prostate. Although ultrasound helps with the placement of the needle, it does not allow your doctor to see which parts of the prostate are showing signs of cancer.
With the introduction of MRI technology, your doctor produces a 3D image of your prostate, allowing the team to test tissue from worrisome areas. Fusion prostate biopsies increase the accuracy of prostate cancer screening and reduce the need for repeated biopsies.
What should I expect during a fusion prostate biopsy?
The first step in a fusion prostate biopsy is an MRI. Once your doctor receives your MRI, the Skyline Urology team begins the procedure by inserting the ultrasound probe into the rectum.
Your doctor overlays the images from your MRI with the images from the ultrasound to produce a 3D image of your prostate gland. Next, your doctor takes samples from lesions and other suspicious areas for testing. The samples help your doctor develop an accurate diagnosis.