MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy

MRI fusion prostate biopsy combines MRI and ultrasound images, allowing for more precise and targeted sampling. This enables biopsy samples to be taken from suspicious areas rather than randomly, as in conventional biopsy.

What is MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy?

MR fusion prostate biopsy is a procedure that uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound techniques combined with computer software to obtain a highly sensitive tissue sample from the prostate.

In MR fusion prostate biopsy, the MRI image of the patient's prostate is converted into a 3D image using the same device and combined with ultrasound (Transrectal Ultrasonography-TRUS) images. This creates a detailed, 3D image of the prostate, and tissue sampling is performed using a needle within the same device. Using data from two imaging methods in a fusion (overlapping) manner allows for more detailed visualization of areas in the prostate and increases the success rate of the biopsy procedure. The biopsy sample is taken by guiding a needle at the end of a mechanical arm directly to the suspicious area in the image.

MR fusion technology makes it easier to differentiate between cancer and low-risk diseases because it more accurately shows the anatomy of the prostate and the location of lesions.

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What is Transrectal MR Fusion Biopsy?

Transrectal MR fusion biopsy involves taking a sample of prostate tissue by passing a biopsy needle through the rectum (the final part of the large intestine). An ultrasound probe is advanced through the rectum, and the biopsy needle is guided to the area visualized by MR fusion. Since transrectal MR fusion biopsy is performed rectally, the risk of infection is relatively high; therefore, antibiotic treatment may be initiated before or after the procedure.

What is Transperineal MR Fusion Biopsy?

Transperineal MR fusion biopsy involves obtaining a sample of prostate tissue by advancing a biopsy needle through the perineum (the area of ​​skin between the scrotum and the anus). Because the procedure is performed directly through the skin without puncturing the rectal mucosa, the risk of infection and sepsis is relatively lower compared to transrectal MR fusion biopsy.

How is an MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy Performed?

For MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy, an MRI of the patient's prostate is performed first, and suspicious areas are marked. These MRI images are combined with live transrectal or transperineal ultrasound images. Thanks to the combined imaging (fusion), the biopsy needle is precisely guided to the targeted area, and tissue samples are taken from the region to be examined. During the procedure, the ultrasound probe and biopsy needle are visualized simultaneously. Multiple samples are taken from each lesion, therefore the number of needles may vary. MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy takes between 30 and 60 minutes, and local anesthesia is usually preferred.

Is any preparation required before an MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy?

Before an MR fusion prostate biopsy, the patient should be informed about the procedure, necessary tests should be completed, and their regularly used medications should be adjusted if necessary. The following points should be considered before an MR fusion prostate biopsy:

• If blood thinners are being used, they should be adjusted.
• An enema may be required before an MR fusion prostate biopsy.
• Antibiotics may be started before a transrectal biopsy to reduce the risk of infection.
• The doctor should provide information about the fasting period, type of anesthesia, and sedation.
• A companion is absolutely necessary before and after the procedure.

What precautions should be taken after an MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy?

After an MR fusion prostate biopsy, the patient can go home the same day, but depending on other health problems and complications that occurred during the procedure, it may be necessary to stay under observation for 1-2 hours afterwards. Things to keep in mind after an MR fusion prostate biopsy are as follows:

• Blood in the urine (hematuria), blood in the semen (hematospermia), and rectal bleeding are normal, but high fever, chills, inability to urinate, increasing pelvic pain, and increased bleeding require urgent medical attention.
• Antibiotics and painkillers prescribed by the doctor should be used exactly as directed, without interruption.
• Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2 days following the procedure.
• Sexual activity should be avoided for 2 days following the procedure.
• The timing for restarting blood-thinning medication should be determined by a doctor.

What are the advantages of MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy?

MR fusion prostate biopsy combines two different imaging methods, allowing for accurate visualization and targeting of all tissues in the prostate, revealing hidden areas. Thanks to MR fusion prostate biopsy, sufficient samples are taken from problematic areas instead of unnecessarily removing a large amount of tissue.

What are the risks of MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy?

Like any invasive procedure, MR fusion prostate biopsy carries some risks. Mild blood in the urine, blood in the semen, and rectal bleeding are normal after the procedure. These complications usually resolve spontaneously within 1 to 7 days. Because transrectal MR fusion biopsy carries a risk of infection and sepsis, a specialist may prescribe antibiotics before the procedure. Sometimes, urinary incontinence may occur, requiring temporary catheterization. Increased pelvic pain, bleeding, and high fever strongly advise seeking medical attention.

Frequently Asked Questions About MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy

What diseases can be diagnosed with MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy?

MR fusion prostate biopsy is often preferred for diagnosing prostate cancer. MR fusion prostate biopsy can be performed to diagnose the following conditions:

• Prostate cancer
• Prostate Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PIN)
• Atypical Small Acinar Proliferation (ASAP)

Chronic Prostatitis and Various Inflammations: What is the Difference Between MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy and Classic Prostate Biopsy?

In a classic prostate biopsy, tissue samples are taken randomly from different areas of the prostate using ultrasound, and this method can miss cancer. MR fusion prostate biopsy matches (fusions) previously taken multiparametric MRI images with ultrasound, allowing suspicious lesions to be directly targeted and the biopsy sample to be collected in a more focused manner.

Is the patient sedated during MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy?

MR fusion prostate biopsy is usually performed under local anesthesia, but the final decision regarding anesthesia should be made by a specialist physician.

How long does it take to get the pathology results from an MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy?

The pathology results for MR fusion prostate biopsy vary depending on where the procedure is performed, but the pathology report is typically ready within 7 to 14 days.

What is the price of an MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy?

The price of an MR fusion prostate biopsy varies depending on the healthcare center and insurance coverage. For exact pricing information, please contact the hospital or clinic where the procedure will be performed.

Is MR Fusion Prostate Biopsy Difficult?

MR fusion prostate biopsy is safe when performed by an experienced team, but like any invasive procedure, it carries some risks. The level of difficulty varies depending on the biopsy method (transrectal vs. transperineal) and the patient's overall health.