What is a transperineal and transrectal prostate biopsy under micro-ultrasound guidance?
Transperineal and transrectal targeted prostate biopsies are considered minor urological procedures. During the procedure, a special probe is inserted into the rectum to visualize the prostate, identify suspicious areas that may indicate cancer, and collect tissue samples from those areas. A small tissue fragment is taken from the organ using a special needle and biopsy device, either transrectally or transperineally. The procedure is brief (5–7 minutes) and painless.
A prostate biopsy under micro-ultrasound guidance effectively identifies suspicious areas for prostate cancer and ensures tissue is collected with 100% precision from the necessary zones. Its effectiveness has been confirmed by numerous scientific studies. However, its benefits don’t end there. It is also possible to fuse prostate MRI images (FUSION) with live micro-ultrasound visuals, achieving near 100% accuracy. This method represents the highest standard in prostate biopsy and is the latest advancement in modern medicine.
Who needs a transrectal or transperineal targeted prostate biopsy and in what cases is it done?
- Elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA): For a long time, the PSA standard was considered 0–4 ng/ml. However, for almost 2 years, the European Association of Urology has recommended a new normal of 0–2 ng/ml.
- Suspicious tissue found during digital rectal examination (DRE)
- Suspicious areas identified during micro-ultrasound imaging of the prostate
- Suspicious regions found during multiparametric MRI or standard ultrasound of the prostate
Transperineal targeted biopsy is particularly relevant and effective in cases of enlarged prostate glands.
Transperineal biopsy, as well as fusion/targeted biopsy, has been implemented not only in the Tbilisi branch (Chachava Street #1, 9th floor) for the past 3 years but also in various clinics across Georgia.
