A prostate biopsy is recommended in case of suspected prostate cancer due to increased PSA levels or an abnormal rectal examination, or both.
A fusion biopsy is a smart biopsy guided by MRI scanning. During the test, suspicious areas are noted by the radiologist, and the MRI data is combined with ultrasound images. This combination (fusion) makes it possible to target the biopsy more accurately to suspicious areas, rather than blind piercing, and to increase the rate of disease detection.
The biopsy is managed by a urologist, who takes a small tissue sample from the prostate using a small needle. Then, a tissue sample is sent to the pathological laboratory for microscopic examination.
Who should undergo a fusion biopsy?
Leading HMOs in the United States and Europe recommend to undergo an MRI-guided biopsy in all cases where a re-biopsy is necessary. It means that the patient has already undergone a prostate biopsy with normal results, but it is necessary to repeat the procedure because of the alleged disease or in case of follow-up. Patients with an enlarged prostate or with a high suspicion of cancer who have not previously undergone a prostate biopsy can also use this method.
