MRI Fusion Prostate Biopsy

An MRI fusion prostate biopsy fuses an MRI scan of the prostate with the ultrasound image taken during a biopsy. This improves accuracy in the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, making this procedure the most effective way to diagnose the disease. In the past, doctors randomly sampled different areas of the prostate. The MRI fusion prostate biopsy removes the guesswork and reduces the likelihood of missing cancer that should have been treated, with the precision of a few millimeters.

Fusion biopsy lets the urologist:

• Detect potential cancer sites before performing the biopsy, thanks to MRI test.
• Locate suspicious areas on the ultrasound image in real time during the biopsy.
• Guide the biopsy needle directly into those areas.
• Record the position of the biopsies performed in 3D prostate mapping. This information is essential for diagnosis and follow-up.

A urologist performs the transrectal or transperineal ultrasound fused biopsy, which is done in the office setting. An endorectal ultrasound probe will be inserted via the rectum.

You will be positioned on your side so that the doctor may obtain the “targeted” biopsies using the MRI images obtained during your first visit. The images are superimposed on a monitor screen to guide where the biopsy should be taken. An additional standard core biopsy may also be done. Possible side effects include pain, discomfort, bleeding, and risk of infection after the biopsy.

Let your healthcare team know about all medications and supplements that you are taking. Since bleeding can happen after a prostate biopsy, so you will be asked to stop taking any blood thinner medications for a week before your biopsy. You will also be prescribed antibiotics.

Your biopsy results will help determine your course of treatment, which can range from watchful waiting in the case of non-aggressive cancer, to more active treatment such as surgery, radiation, and/or hormone therapy.