Procedures

Prostate Ultrasound is a diagnostic study. The prostate is imaged and measured by placing an ultrasound probe into the rectum. This is an important study when planning certain types of treatment for the prostate.

Indications

• Prostate biopsy
• Prostate microwave therapy planning
• Prostate brachytherapy planning
• Evaluation of certain prostate infections

Procedure

Two hours before the ultrasound, the patient uses an enema to clean the rectum. During the procedure, the patient lies on the exam table and the ultrasound probe is placed into the rectum. Then, the prostate will be imaged and measured.

Side Effects

Patients may experience some discomfort when the probe is inserted into the rectum, even thought the probe doesn’t go any farther than when the physician performs a rectal exam.