The scans made for prostate cancer research in the Ommelander are viewed and assessed together for the urologists and radiologists. “The technique we have been using since April is called a ‘fusion biopsy’ using an ultrasound/MRI”, explains urologist Marieke Weesepoel.
“The great thing about radiology is that you always work together with other specialisms. We don’t just sit behind the computer judging ‘pictures’. We also discuss with other specialists what we see and how we can best examine and treat the patient. That’s what it’s all about in the end,” adds radiologist Remco de Cuijper.
Prostate cancer screening with ultrasound and MRI
The new research method for detecting prostate cancer uses an ultrasound machine that is digitally linked to an MRI. Any suspicious spots in the prostate can be seen much more accurately on the MRI scan than on an ultrasound. However, the echo is indispensable for the process that follows. “As a radiologist, I draw the route on the MRI images, as it were. The urologist can then navigate very precisely with the ultrasound to the right place to take the biopsy,” said Weesepoel.
Thanks to this combined technique, the chance that the biopsy taken will yield a result is much greater than is the case with sample biopsies as previously taken. For the patient this means that he has more certainty about his health situation. In addition, there is a chance that the relatively unpleasant treatment that taking a biopsy often entails will have to be done again.
Start treatment earlier
The faster detection of prostate cancer via this new method automatically means that treatment can be started sooner. To this end, the urologists and radiologists also work closely with other specialists such as oncologists and radiotherapists.
“We don’t just do this in our own hospital. The Ommelander Hospital is affiliated with the Prostate Center of the Netherlands. Specialists from different hospitals work together in this partnership. This way we can give the patients the best treatment. Close by where possible and further away when necessary”, concludes Weesepoel.
The method for prostate cancer research such as that in the Ommelander hospital is not the only new development in this area. It started last year Reinier Haga Prostate Cancer Center taking so-called robot-guided MRI prostate biopsies. In addition, the biopsies are taken more accurately and with less pain by a Robot Biopteur.
