Advances in Transrectal Ultrasound Imaging of the Prostate

Grayscale imaging of the prostate is the basic method for diagnostic evaluation and biopsy guidance. Doppler imaging may improve sensitivity for detection of prostate cancer. Microbubble contrast agents represent a major advance to more selectively demonstrate neovascular flow within the prostate. Recently, real-time elastography has been introduced to improve detection of cancer based upon changes in tissue stiffness. As diagnostic methods improve, the ultimate hope is to eliminate biopsy in patients without cancer. New ultrasound-based treatment systems, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound ablative therapy for prostate cancer, may someday allow diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer to be completed in one sitting.