Also available in PDF format: Prostate Ultrasound.pdf 

Ultrasound of the prostate uses sound waves to obtain pictures of the prostate and seminal vesicles. Ultrasound can also check the flow of blood within the prostate gland, prostate size, calcium deposits, and presence of blockages and/or swelling.

Ultrasound sends sound waves into the body using a transducer, a hand-held device that sends and receives sound waves. The device is gently placed a short distance into the rectum. As the sound waves echo from the body’s fluids and tissues, a picture is created in real-time showing the prostate and related structures.

The prostate is best imaged using a device that is placed in the rectum. You should try to move your bowels as much as possible before the exam, but you don’t have to use an enema.

1. You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist down, and you will be given a sheet to cover yourself.
2. You will lie on an exam table on your left side.
3. The sonographer (technologist) will then insert the transducer into the rectum and sweep it around to obtain the pictures.
4. The radiologist may obtain more pictures after the sonographer is done.

Ultrasound of the prostate is fast, painless, and easy. You will feel the transducer slowly advance a short distance into your rectum. There is little or no discomfort with the exam, which usually takes less than 20 minutes.

The radiologist who specializes in ultrasound will review the pictures and send the report to your referring doctor. You will receive your results from the doctor who ordered the test. In some cases, the radiologist may discuss early findings with you when your exam is over.