[Tridimensional ultrasound of the prostate].
OBJECTIVE
To present the examination technique of grayscale tridimensional transrectal prostatic ultrasound and its clinical viability. To define the ultrasonographic patterns and to report the clinical experience of our group.


METHODS
We analyze selected exams from a database of more than 600 digitally stored tridimensional transrectal prostatic ultrasounds performed with a robotic probe. We collect the opinion and observations of the examiners, all of them experts on prostatic ultrasound. Each case has been completed with pathologic and clinical data.


RESULTS
The time spent for each test was less than three minutes, achieving good quality, reproducible exams. The analysis of the front view offers the greatest contribution in comparison to the conventional technique, allowing a more clear detection of structures such as the junction with the seminal vesicles, the capsular contour, and urethra.


CONCLUSIONS
Tridimensional transrectal prostatic ultrasound is an imaging test applicable in the clinical practice which offers quality images and may provide great benefits for the diagnosis and local staging of prostate cancer, by means of the analysis of the front view.
Bermúdez Villaverde
Raúl
R
Servicio de Urología, Hospital Santa Bárbara, Soria, España. raul@acluweb.com
Marrón Penón
María Cruz
MC
Arnáiz Esteban
Félix
F
Martínez Pérez
Esteban
E
Espuela Orgaz
Ricardo
R
D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008297:Male; D011469:Prostatic Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014463:Ultrasonography