Ultrasound examination - transrectal ultrasound
The prostate ultrasound provides pictures of a man's prostate gland. The exam typically requires insertion of an ultrasound probe into the rectum of the patient. The probe sends and receives sound waves through the wall of the rectum into the prostate gland which is situated right in front of the rectum.
A transrectal ultrasound of the prostate gland is performed to detect disorders within the prostate, termine whether the prostate is enlarged, with measurements acquired as needed for any treatment planning,detect an abnormal growth within the prostate, help diagnose the cause of a man’s infertility.
A transrectal ultrasound of the prostate gland is typically used to help diagnose symptoms such as:
- a nodule is felt by a physician during a routine physical exam or prostate cancer screening exam.
- an elevated blood test result.
- difficulty urinating.
