All about TRUS

In this article here below, distinguished consultant urologist, Mr Christopher Ogden, shares expert insights into what TRUS is, and how it can help treat and detect prostate cancer. 

What is TRUS?

It is an ultrasound scan that is imaged through the rectum. The ultrasound probe gives very accurate pictures of the prostate gland. It’s been a tool in urology for many years. It can be used to treat both malignant and benign prostate conditions. 

It is a very dynamic scan, and can allow the urologist to understand a prostate condition perfectly to enable them to make as accurate a diagnosis as possible. 

How easily is prostate cancer diagnosed through a TRUS biopsy?

You can identify calcification in the prostate, but it can affect the ability to see or identify pathological processes by calcification masking the ultrasound image. The accuracy of picking up cancer is still higher in MRI scans. However, the scan does give very accurate and in-depth imaging of the prostate.

In what other conditions is TRUS biopsy used?

It is typically only used to diagnose prostate cancer. 

How does TRUS improve the accuracy of biopsy testing compared to traditional biopsy testing?

TRUS biopsy has now evolved into fusion techniques. For example, it can be fused with an MRI as well, which is the gold standard when it comes to diagnosing cancer. 

How does TRUS contribute to the treatment of prostate cancer?

It’s not just used for cancer, but it is actually also very effective when used for detecting benign prostate enlargement.