Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: connecting radiology and urology workflows for better care

With prostate cancer being the 4th most common cancer worldwide and the 2nd most common cancer among men [1], early and accurate diagnosis is as crucial as ever, as it often leads to clear options for treatment. The standard way to diagnose is often still a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) prostate biopsy, which can be imprecise, with the ability to detect only 31-40% of cancers [2]. 

Over the past years, multi-parametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging (mpMRI) has gained prominence as a way of obtaining a more targeted and accurate biopsy. Based on MR images of the prostate, the radiologist can define suspicious areas and provide a score (PI-RADS) which rates the likelihood of cancer in an abnormal area or lesion. Fusing these MR images with TRUS images in real time allows the urologist to see suspicious lesions while visualizing the biopsy needle at the same time leveraging both ultrasound and MR images – offering more precise guidance for biopsy-taking. This more targeted approach can benefit patients by potentially reducing instances of biopsy-related hospitalization, decreasing the likelihood of sepsis, and most importantly, avoiding the need for repeat biopsies [3].

Using MR imaging and automated advanced post-processing can also enhance workflow, productivity and collaboration between radiology and urology departments and clinicians. Philips’ prostate cancer care solutions include DynaCAD, an advanced visualization system designed to enhance the workflow of radiologists and UroNav, an advanced fusion biopsy system that supports prostate biopsies by fusing pre-biopsy MR images with live ultrasound images for guided biopsies in real time. By integrating advanced visualization and fusion biopsy technologies, patients receive better and more precise care and clinicians are supported in better diagnosis, a 30% improvement in high-risk prostate cancer diagnosis using fusion biopsy compared to the standard biopsy [4].