NJ Prostate Ultrasound and Biopsy
Screening for Abnormalities
When our patients receive abnormal results from a digital rectal exam, or have an elevated prostate-specific antigen blood test, Somerset Urological Associates will perform a prostate ultrasound and biopsy. This examination involves a small probe, about the size of a finger, that is inserted a short distance into the rectum. Once in place the probe will produce high-frequency soundwaves that are captured, recorded, and transformed into video or photographic images of what the prostate gland looks like. As a Somerset Urological Associate’s doctor examines the prostate and any abnormal growths, the prostate ultrasound will allow the doctor to view them at different angles to get a fully encompassing view of what is taking place.
A prostate biopsy takes place by using the imagery that is provided by the prostate ultrasound to guide multiple small needle-like tools through the rectum and to the area of the prostate where the growths are detected. These tools will remove a tiny amount of tissue from various areas of the growth to be taken and analyzed in a laboratory. The results of the test will help our doctors diagnose disorders and diseases that may be affecting the prostate, as well as develop a plan of treatment that will properly restore prostate health and prevent any further harm to the body. If cancer is detected from the biopsy, the doctor will have a very good idea of the severity of the cancer and the likelihood of it spreading to other parts of the body.
The procedure itself does not take very long, only 20-30 minutes at most. Patients will be asked to stop taking any blood thinning medication at least one week prior to the procedure. Patients may also be asked to use an enema at home before coming in for the procedure, to minimize the risk of infection during the ultrasound and biopsy. The patient will lie on their side with the knees drawn up to the chest. A local anesthetic will be administered to ensure the patient is comfortable during the procedure. The ultrasound probe will be inserted into the rectum and the biopsy will be taken. The patient may experience some discomfort as the biopsy is performed. Following the procedure, patients are recommended to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day to cleanse the urinary tract. Small amounts of blood in urine, semen, or stool is normal for about a week following the procedure.
Somerset Urological Associates has helped hundreds of patients identify and treat prostate cancer over the years, and our cutting edge treatments and preventative practices have earned our practice recognition throughout the Somerset area and all of New Jersey. If a previous urologist has left you with concerns that your prostate issues were not properly addressed, come visit us at Somerset Urological Associates, where you’ll be treated like family by our friendly team of doctors and medical professionals.