WHAT IS TARGETED MRI/FUSION BIOPSY?

The Artemis targeted MRI/Ultrasound fusion prostate biopsy system is the latest technology available in the detection and management of prostate cancer, and Washington Regional is proud to offer this new technology to Northwest Arkansas.

Historically, finding the exact location of cancer in a prostate gland has been a challenge. Conventional TRUS prostate biopsy techniques are referred to as “blind” biopsies since physicians typically cannot easily view the specific location of any abnormal tissue. With the Artemis 3D imaging and navigation system, physicians are able to better identify and more accurately biopsy suspicious prostate cancer areas.

HOW DOES THE ARTEMIS FUSION BIOPSY SYSTEM WORK?

First, an MRI exam of the prostate detects sus­picious areas that can't be seen on ultrasound but can be cancerous. The radiologist marks these areas in a process known as "mapping." For the biopsy procedure, the patient will be positioned onto their left side and receive anesthesia to make them comfortable during the procedure. The urologist will then use ultrasound imaging to obtain more images of the prostate. These images will be fused with the MRI mapping to create a model of the prostate. The urologist uses a semi robotic arm to navigate the ultra­sound probe and biopsy instrument to target the suspicious locations that were mapped and takes multiple specimens of these areas for further examination.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE APPOINTMENT?

The MRI/Ultrasound fusion biopsy will be performed at Washington Regional Medical Center. Monitored "twilight" anesthesia care (similar to colonoscopy) is required to ensure a quality biopsy is performed. You will not be allowed to drive yourself home after the biopsy is com­pleted - all patients are required to have a driver home from the hospital. You will be asked to arrive approximately an hour prior to the biopsy. The biopsy itself typically takes around 30 minutes. Afterwards, the nursing staff will monitor your recovery for about an hour before releasing you to go home. You should expect to spend 3-4 hours total at the hospital on the day of your appointment.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTERWARDS?

Patients are typically able to return to work the next day. Most patients experience blood in the urine for a few days to several weeks following the biopsy. You may also see blood in bowel movement, which can be cleared by resting and drinking plenty of water. Patients can expect to see blood in their semen for 4-6 weeks following the biopsy. If a patient becomes unable to urinate, or de­velops a 100.0° fever following a biopsy, please contact your urologist.

HAVE QUESTIONS OR WANT MORE INFORMATION?

For more information, call Ozark Urology at 479.404.1100, or click here to learn more about the Artemis semi-robotic prostate fusion biopsy system.