How to do prostate ultrasound
Prostate ultrasound is a common medical examination method, mainly used to diagnose prostate diseases, such as prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis or prostate cancer. In recent years, with the increase in health awareness, prostate health issues have become a hot topic. This article will introduce in detail the examination process, precautions and related data of prostate ultrasound to help everyone better understand this examination method.
1. Procedure of prostate ultrasound examination
Prostate ultrasound examination is usually divided into two types: transabdominal ultrasound and transrectal ultrasound. The following is the detailed process of the two methods:
| Check method | Operation steps | Applicable people |
|---|---|---|
| transabdominal ultrasound | 1. The patient lies on his back, exposing the lower abdomen 2. The doctor applies coupling agent and scans the abdomen with a probe 3. Observe prostate shape and size through images | For initial screening or for patients who cannot tolerate transrectal examination |
| transrectal ultrasound | 1. The patient lies on his side with his knees flexed. 2. The doctor inserts the special probe into the rectum 3. Observe prostate details at close range and perform biopsy if necessary | Suitable for patients who require accurate diagnosis or suspected prostate cancer |
2. Precautions for prostate ultrasound
To ensure exam accuracy and patient comfort, here are some things to consider before and after a prostate ultrasound:
| Time node | Things to note |
|---|---|
| Before inspection | 1. During transabdominal ultrasound, you need to hold back your urine and keep your bladder full. 2. Transrectal ultrasound requires emptying the intestines in advance and enema if necessary 3. Inform the doctor of allergy history and medication use |
| Under inspection | 1. Stay relaxed and follow the doctor’s instructions 2. There may be slight discomfort during transrectal examination, which is normal. |
| After inspection | 1. Pay attention to anal cleanliness after rectal examination 2. If you have persistent pain or bleeding, seek medical attention promptly. |
3. Common data interpretation of prostate ultrasound
After a prostate ultrasound, your doctor will use the measurements to evaluate the health of your prostate. The following are reference ranges for common indicators:
| indicator | normal range | abnormal meaning |
|---|---|---|
| prostate volume | 15-25ml | Greater than 25 ml may indicate hyperplasia |
| prostate transverse diameter | 3-4.5 cm | Excessive size may be accompanied by urinary tract obstruction |
| echo uniformity | Uniform | Unevenness may indicate inflammation or tumors |
4. Advantages and limitations of prostate ultrasound
Prostate ultrasound, as a non-invasive or minimally invasive examination method, has the following advantages and limitations:
| Advantages | limitations |
|---|---|
| 1. No radiation, high safety 2. Repeatable inspection 3. Transrectal ultrasound has high resolution | 1. Transabdominal ultrasound is interfered by intestinal gas 2. Unable to 100% identify benign and malignant lesions 3. Rely on operator experience |
5. Summary
Prostate ultrasound is an important means of diagnosing prostate diseases. Choosing the appropriate examination method and making preparations can improve the accuracy and comfort of the examination. If you have prostate-related symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical treatment in time and conduct corresponding examinations according to the doctor's recommendations. Regular physical exams and early screening are critical to prostate health.
check the details
check the details
en
