Transrectal ultrasound of the prostate gland (TRUS) is performed when there is a suspicion of cancer and some forms of prostatitis. It is often accompanied by a biopsy, i.e. taking tissue for histopathological examination. How does TRUS work?

Transrectal (transrectal) ultrasound of the prostate gland (TRUS)is the best diagnostic method - radiologicalprostate . However, it is not considered a routine test as it does not detect early-stage cancer. Thanks to it, however, it is possible to assess the volume of the prostate and determine the best treatment options. This test is also useful for some surgical procedures, such as cryosurgery.

TRUS test: indications

  • assessment of the size and internal structure of the prostate gland in men receiving treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia
  • when the conclusions from the previous rectal palpation examination are not clear
  • elevated levels of PSA (prostatic specific antigen) deviating from the norm
  • a family history of prostate cancer
  • infertility
  • prostate pains
  • difficult to define pain in the lower abdomen or perineum
  • inflammatory diseases of the prostate
  • prostate cancer

Preparation for ultrasound of the prostate gland

The test does not require any special preparation - you do not need to cleanse or do an enema ( although you can do it for your own comfort).

If possible, take the results of your previous prostate tests (both transrectal and abdominal) and your PSA test with you when you go to the test.

You do not need to have a filled bladder, because it does not affect the quality of the prostate examination result, but it may cause additional discomfort for the patient. There is also no need to use rectal enemas or take laxatives before the test.

ultrasound of the prostate gland: course

Prostate transrectal examination takes several minutes.

TRUS examination, due to the violation of the limits of intimacy, for most patients brings with it considerable psychological discomfort, which most doctors are well aware of, so they try to do it as possibledelicately.

It can be performed in two positions:

  • in the knee-elbow position (on all fours, on the couch, with the buttocks out)
  • lying on her side on a couch, with her back to the doctor, buttocks stuck out.

The doctor puts some gel on the head and inserts the ultrasound head into the rectum. The head is round and narrow. During the examination, the doctor rotates the head around its axis to obtain a picture of the entire examined area. After removing the head, the patient may dry off and dress.

Worth knowing

What are the correct dimensions of the prostate gland?

The prostate gland is an organ of the size and shape resembling a walnut, and the norms for its individual dimensions are as follows:

  • prostate volume - less than 25 ml, is calculated from the formula V=W (width) x H (height) x L (length) x 0.523
  • width of the prostate in the transverse view - less than 45 mm (W)
  • gland length in sagittal projection - less than 35 mm (L)
  • prostate height - less than 33 mm (H)

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Research