Prostate Ultrasound

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of malignant diseases in men, and prostate inflammation and benign hyperplasia are also typical diseases. Due to the prostate’s close proximity to the urinary system (the urethra passes through the prostate), symptoms associated with prostate disorders are often related to urination. However, these are non-specific symptoms that may have a cause of other origins. Transrectal ultrasound of the prostate is a safe and painless method for detecting abnormalities when other tests (blood analysis, digital rectal examination) cannot determine the cause of the problem or the diagnosis with certainty. In cases of malignant prostate disease that usually causes symptoms in the later stages of the disease, USG is extremely useful for timely detection, localization and taking samples and determining the degree of the disease.

What is a prostate ultrasound?

Ultrasound (UZV), sonography or echography of the prostate is a diagnostic test that uses high-frequency sound waves to show the prostate – the male sex gland located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Based on this, ultrasound examination can detect abnormalities of the prostate and surrounding structures.

When is a prostate ultrasound necessary?

Due to the prostate’s close proximity to the urinary system (the urethra passes through the prostate), symptoms associated with prostate disorders are often related to urination. Common symptoms that may prompt a prostate ultrasound include:

• Frequent, difficult, or interrupted urination
• A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Weak urinary stream
• Pain and burning during urination
• Pain and burning during urination

Symptoms related to sexual function might include:

• Erectile dysfunction
• Pain and burning during or after ejaculation
• Reduced libido
• Decreased sperm count
• Blood in semen

Prostate ultrasound may also be indicated in the following situations:

• Abnormal findings during a physical or digital rectal exam
• Elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels in the blood
• Biopsy of the prostate under ultrasound guidance
• Symptoms suggesting prostate inflammation (prostatitis), such as fever, lower abdominal pain, perineal pain, and pain during urination

While benign prostate conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) often present earlier, malignant changes typically cause symptoms only when the disease is advanced.

Therefore, preventive ultrasound screening is recommended for men over 50, particularly those with a family history of prostate cancer.

What can a prostate ultrasound detect?

A prostate ultrasound can identify and differentiate between various prostate conditions, including:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): Enlarged prostate
• Acute and chronic prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate
• Abnormalities: Such as abscesses, cysts, nodules, and calcifications
• Malignant changes: Cancerous transformations

How is a prostate ultrasound performed?

The procedure typically begins with a consultation with a specialist who will evaluate your symptoms and medical history. A detailed description of your symptoms and medical history is necessary for assessing the need for further tests and for accurate diagnosis.

The procedure involves removing clothing from the abdomen. A water-based gel is applied to the ultrasound probe to ensure clear transmission of sound waves between the probe and the tissue. The probe is then gently moved over the abdomen to display the structures of the abdominal cavity.The procedure is completely painless. The images of organs and blood vessels are displayed in real time on a computer, and the physician will generate a report based on these images. Images are displayed in real-time on a computer, and the physician provides a report and verbal instructions after the examination. The entire examination lasts about 20 minutes.

Preparation for a prostate ultrasound

To prepare for the ultrasound, follow these guidelines:

• Eat light, cooked food the day before the exam, avoiding heavy, fatty foods and those that cause gas (carbonated drinks, dairy products, fruit, vegetables).
• Fasting: Do not eat for 8-12 hours before the exam.
• Bring any relevant previous medical documentation.

Precautions

A prostate ultrasound is a completely safe radiological method that does not use harmful ionizing radiation.

Cost of prostate ultrasound

You can check the price of the inspection in the current price list.

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