Biopsy for Prostate Cancer
A biopsy is the removal of tissue to screen for cancer cells and is the only sure way to diagnose prostate cancer. The tissue samples are reviewed under a microscope by a pathologist.
During a transrectal biopsy, a needle is inserted through the rectum into the prostate under the guidance of an ultrasound probe and a small amount of tissue is removed.
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Transrectal ultrasound: A procedure in which a probe that sends out high-energy sound waves is inserted into the rectum. The sound waves are bounced off internal tissues or organs and make echoes. The echoes form a picture of body tissue called a sonogram. TRUS is used to look for abnormalities in the rectum and nearby structures, including the prostate. Also called endorectal ultrasound.