A transrectal prostate ultrasound is an imaging test that allows the prostate to be assessed in great detail and is particularly useful in the evaluation of prostatic abnormalities, urinary symptoms, and suspicious lesions. It is a safe, quick, and generally well-tolerated examination, performed using a thin probe inserted into the rectum, which enables more precise images of the prostate gland and seminal vesicles.
What is a Transrectal Prostate Ultrasound and what is it used for?
A transrectal prostate ultrasound, also referred to as an endocavitary prostate ultrasound, uses high-frequency ultrasound waves to obtain real-time images of the prostate through a probe inserted into the rectum.
Because it allows closer proximity to the prostate gland, this is the ultrasound method that provides the greatest anatomical detail, making it especially useful for accurately assessing the internal structure of the prostate.
At X-Clinic, ultrasounds are performed using the latest technology, with top-of-the-range High-Resolution Digital Ultrasonography equipment, including three-dimensional technology and the option of real-time 3D visualization – 4D, Colour Doppler, and panoramic imaging.
Transrectal prostate ultrasound is frequently used to:
- Assess the size, shape, and structure of the prostate;
- Study the texture of the prostate gland and its capsule;
- Identify signs of benign prostatic hyperplasia;
- Investigate inflammatory or infectious changes, such as prostatitis;
- Detect nodules or lesions suspicious for prostate cancer;
- Assess the seminal vesicles;
- Complement the urological assessment when there is clinical or laboratory suspicion of prostatic pathology.
What is the price of a Transrectal Prostate Ultrasound?
The price of a transrectal prostate ultrasound is €60 for private patients. However, X-Clinic has agreements with the following providers:
- ADSE (the patient only pays a co-payment of €8), ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance providers: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurance providers;
- Health Plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans.
The final price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance plan you wish to use.
How is it performed?
In a transrectal prostate ultrasound, the patient is usually positioned lying on their side with their legs bent. A thin ultrasound probe, protected and lubricated, is then carefully inserted into the rectum, allowing detailed images of the prostate and seminal vesicles to be obtained.
Through this approach, the doctor can observe the prostate anatomy more accurately, including the peripheral zone of the gland, the prostatic capsule, and any focal changes.
The examination may cause some discomfort, but it is generally not painful. It is carried out by a doctor specialised in medical imaging and usually lasts about 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the complexity of the study.
What does it detect?
A transrectal prostate ultrasound allows the identification and assessment of various changes in the prostate and adjacent structures, namely:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia;
- Prostatitis and other inflammatory changes;
- Nodules or suspicious lesions of the prostate;
- Changes in the prostatic capsule;
- Prostatic cysts;
- Changes in the seminal vesicles, such as cysts or dilatations;
- Asymmetries or heterogeneity of the prostate gland.
This examination is particularly useful when a more detailed evaluation of the prostate is required than that obtained through the suprapubic approach, and it may support clinical decision-making regarding the need for complementary tests or urological surveillance.
In which cases is it indicated?
A transrectal prostate ultrasound may be recommended in various clinical situations, such as:
- Persistent urinary symptoms;
- Suspected benign enlargement of the prostate;
- Suspected prostatitis;
- Elevated PSA or abnormal digital rectal examination;
- Suspected prostatic lesions;
- Presence of blood in the semen;
- Male infertility assessment, including evaluation of the seminal vesicles;
- Follow-up of previously known prostatic abnormalities;
- Complementary urological assessment when suprapubic ultrasound is insufficient.
Preparation for a Transrectal Prostate Ultrasound
Before a transrectal prostate ultrasound, you should perform rectal cleansing with a micro-enema, according to medical advice, to facilitate the procedure and improve the quality of the examination.
As a rule, fasting is not necessary.
Whenever possible, bring previous tests (ultrasounds, laboratory analyses and/or medical reports) and the medical prescription.
Where can it be done?
A transrectal prostate ultrasound can be carried out at X-Clinic (Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco, nº26 – Intermediate floor, 1070-110 Lisbon) or at NRD (Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070-060 Lisbon – Near Praça de Espanha).
