• decreaseincrease
  • pdf

Artemis MRI - New Technology for Prostate Cancer Detection and Treatment

While prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, with early detection it is also one of the most treatable. Prostate cancer has few symptoms, however, so technology that aids in diagnosis can be a lifesaver, says Dr. Robert Grand, a urologist at Washington Regional’s Ozark Urology Clinic. “Prostate cancer that is detected early has a better chance of being successfully treated,” he says. “It is especially important to identify high-risk prostate cancers early, to offer a better prognosis and overall life expectancy.”

To enhance early detection of prostate cancer, Washington Regional now offers the Artemis MRI fusion guided biopsy system, which integrates traditional biopsy methods with technologically advanced imaging. “The Artemis system merges an MRI image to an ultrasound image,” explains Dr. Grand. “With this, we can dynamically identify tumors within the prostate and then take very specific, targeted biopsies of those areas.”

One in eight men will develop prostate cancer in his lifetime, says Dr. Grand, who recommends prostate cancer screening for men between the ages of 55 and 70. Screening for cancer of the prostate — which is a small gland located below the bladder — typically involves a blood test and a manual physical exam. An ultrasound may also be performed to further check the prostate for signs of cancer.

However, not all prostate cancers can be found with ultrasound alone, Dr. Grand says, which is why the MRI enhancement offered by the Artemis system is so important. “MRIs can detect up to 80% of prostate cancers, so doing the MRI allows us to better identify prostate cancer when imaging.”

If a tumor is identified, treatment typically involves radiation therapy, surgical resection of the prostate or active surveillance, which is carefully monitoring the tumor while delaying treatment and the associated side effects.

“The Artemis system allows us to more accurately determine your prostate cancer risk and then treat you based on what is best for your lifestyle and best for the type of prostate cancer you have,” Dr. Grand says. “Overall, prostate cancer has a very good prognosis. In some cases, we can actually follow active surveillance and avoid treatment.”