The prostate gland is the organ surrounding the initial portion of the urethra. The shape of the prostate resembles a chestnut. The body produces juice, which is a component of seminal fluid, which is released in the process of mash eruption.
Ultrasound of the prostate is designed to diagnose and detect diseases of the scrotum, testicles, and the prostate itself (including cancer). In addition, this study allows us to establish the degree of circulatory disorders.
With the help of ultrasound of the prostate gland, one can see the contour of organs, structure, as well as foreign formations (if any).
This method is considered one of the most affordable and is used in cases of suspected diseases such as:
- acute prostatitis and its complications;
- abscess;
- epididymitis (an inflammatory process that affects the epididymis and seminal vesicles) and vesiculitis in acute and chronic course, accompanying in some cases, prostatitis;
- malignant nodes;
- chronic prostatitis;
- prostate cancer;
- Adenomatous nodes in the prostate, often associated with BPH;
- benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Examination should be carried out with a full bladder. In this case, its walls expand and become available for research.
Ultrasound of the prostate gland. Preparation
The examination is recommended in the morning, on an empty stomach. On the evening before the study, suppose a light dinner. In the morning immediately before the examination, a cleansing enema is placed.
Ultrasound of the prostate can be performed transdermally (through the wall of the peritoneum) or transrectally (through the rectum). The latter scanning method allows you to correctly assess and identify the status of the prostate. In addition, when using it, one can clarify the nature of foreign formations in the rectum. In accordance with all these factors, optimal surgical treatment is prescribed and therapeutic tactics in general are determined.
Ultrasound of the prostate gland. How do research?
The patient is required to expose the lower abdomen and perineum, lie on his back. Next , the doctor applies a special gel to ultrasound sensors and conducts an examination.
Ultrasound of the prostate gland of an expert level involves the use of an ultramodern scanner, which is equipped with a two- or three-dimensional sensor for transrectal administration. It provides the best detailing of the structure of the prostate, a reliable assessment of blood flow, as well as the possibility of conducting functional tests. Moreover, in the process of transrectal expert ultrasound, the condition of not only the bladder, but also the vas deferens, the muscles of the pelvic floor, veins in the paraprostatic plexus, seminal vesicles and rectum is determined.
The use of a three-dimensional transrectal sensor in combination with modern software allows us to bring the information content of the study closer to the information content of MRI.
When using this method, special preparation measures are not necessary. The use of a small sensor practically has no contraindications (this issue is discussed individually with a doctor).
A transrectal examination is more appropriate for patients over the age of fifty, as well as for the following manifestations: slow urine output, urinary incontinence, weakening pressure during emptying, rapid urination and other pathologies.
In addition, this examination method is used to monitor the effectiveness of drug exposure and the state after surgery.