Ultrasound for prostate imaging and biopsy

Transrectal ultrasound guided systemic sextant needle biopsy of the prostate has been the procedure of choice for the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Several shortcomings of this procedure have been recognized and there is concern that it may represent an inadequate sampling of the prostate. Refinements include modifications of biopsy location and an increase in the number of cores obtained. Enhanced ultrasound techniques may improve the accuracy of prostate biopsy. In addition, research continues to develop prognostic factors derived from the core biopsy that may enhance the prediction of tumor biology. This paper provides a basic review of transrectal ultrasound diagnosis of prostate cancer with emphasis on advances in this area.