Quantitative analysis of the accuracy of linear array transrectal ultrasound in measurement of the prostate

In 61 prostate autopsy specimens, linear array transrectal ultrasound and electronic vernier calipers were used to measure 3 maximal diameters along the longitudinal, anterior-posterior and transverse axes. The results were comparable. We assessed the reliability of empirical formulae, derived from various combinations of these 3 diameters, for the prediction of prostatic volume and weight. Formulae using all 3 diameters were accurate. The combination of longitudinal and anterior-posterior diameters, which was used clinically for prostate measurement, was less accurate.