Using Fusion To Create A Smarter Prostate Biopsy

When a chief combines two different cuisines, like Asian and Italian, it's called fusion-and the result is usually something wonderful. Now fusion is helping me to perform a Smarter Prostate Biopsy and that is truly wonderful.

A few years ago I started working with a new device named Artemis, named for the ancient Greek goddess of hunting. This technological breakthrough provided 3D advanced ultrasound technology that helped me to better plan, navigate, and record each prostate biopsy. In terms of "hunting" for prostate cancer, the original version of Artemis was pretty valuable. However, it was missing a vital link. It lacked the ability to combine the Artemis ultrasound image with the MRI scans from my radiology team. In other words, I needed fusion. Now, after a lot of hard work, the FDA has just approved the use of fusion for Artemis. This means the Scionti Prostate Center now has most sophisticated imagery and navigational tools available for prostate biopsy.

Fusion is powerful because it combines real-time high resolution 3D ultrasound with structural 3D MRI prostate images. This result significantly enhances prostate examination and biopsy sampling. Better yet, it allows me to use FEWER BIOPSY NEEDLES because thanks to fusion, I have the confidence of precise needle placement directly into suspicious areas identified by the MRI scan. The result is 3D visualization, image recording, and precise needle tracking to create the most advanced prostate diagnostic procedure available. It's the only true smart prostate biopsy.

How Artemis Fusion Helps Create A Smarter Biopsy

First, I request a multiparametric MRI prostate scan. The Scionti Prostate Center uses an advanced MRI protocol designed to segment and characterize the prostate tissue. Additionally, we use T2-weighted (T2W), diffusion-weighted (DW) and dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE) to help identify suspected tumors for a targeted biopsy.

Next, by using Artemis to fuse the MRI and live ultrasound images together we create a 3D PROSTATE MAP showing accurate visual details of the size, location and shape of suspected tumors. These details are essential for targeting a biopsy and/or planning a prostate treatment.

Then, guided by this 3D MAP, I can take the next step. I integrate a Power Color Doppler Ultrasound to identify blood flow in and around the prostate. Armed with all this information, I perform a targeted biopsy of suspected prostate tissue. The result is a true targeted biopsy that I like to call a "smart" vs. the "blind" biopsy of a standard 12-14 needle random prostate biopsy.

Artemis also allows me to record and store the actual location of the biopsy samples. That provides a digital baseline of biopsy information for future reference, confirmation and follow-up. The result means more personalized and effective long-term patient management. And that is the most wonderful news of all!