What is a Prostate or Rectal Ultrasound?

A prostate or rectal ultrasound is a test that uses sound waves to examine your prostate or rectum.

The doctor puts a small probe known as a transducer into your rectum or against your prostate to create the pictures of your prostate or rectum. The transducer is about as big as a finger. It is inserted softly into your rectum, where it emits sound waves that bounce off your organs and other tissues. The sound waves are higher than your hearing can detect. The transducer receives the bounced sound waves. These are used to create images of your organs.

Your doctor can attach a device known as a Doppler probe to the transducer. The probe allows your doctor to hear the sound waves that the transducer emits. Your doctor can listen to how fast blood is moving through an artery or vein and in what direction it is moving. A lack of sound or a weak sound can indicate a blockage in the flow.

Why would I be having a prostate/rectal ultrasound?

Prostate/rectal ultrasound can be used to examine the size, position, and contour of the prostate gland and surrounding structures. It can be used to analyse the prostate gland for cancer or other abnormalities. It is usually the next step when a blood test reveals elevated (high) prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Prostate/rectal ultrasound can be used to stage and monitor the treatment of rectal cancer. It is also employed to examine the rectum for any other issues.

A doctor can also employ a prostate/rectal ultrasound to help in inserting a needle to obtain a tissue sample (biopsy). They might use it to assist in inserting radiation seeds applied in treating prostate cancer.

A doctor can also use the test to determine how well the blood is circulating to the prostate or detect masses.

Your doctor might have other reasons for ordering a prostate/rectal ultrasound.

What are the complications of a prostate/rectal ultrasound?

An ultrasound carries no risk of radiation. Most people experience minor discomfort from the transducer being inserted into the rectum.

Let your doctor know if you are allergic to latex. The probe is inserted in a latex sheath before insertion into the rectum.

You might have risks based on your personal health condition. Ensure your doctor is aware of all your health conditions before the procedure.

Too much stool in your rectum can decrease the accuracy of the test.

Benefits of a Prostate/Rectal Ultrasound

Safe and Non-invasive – Uses sound waves without radiation exposure.
Early Detection – Helps identify prostate enlargement, cancer, tumors, or other abnormalities at an early stage.
Guidance for Procedures – Assists doctors in performing prostate biopsies or placing radiation seeds for cancer treatment with accuracy.
Blood Flow Evaluation – Doppler feature checks circulation to detect blockages or abnormal blood supply to the prostate.
Accurate Imaging – Provides detailed images of the prostate gland, rectum, and surrounding tissues.
Monitoring and Staging – Useful for staging rectal cancer and tracking response to treatment.
Quick and Convenient – Usually completed within 15–30 minutes with minimal discomfort.

How do I prepare for a prostate/rectal ultrasound?

Your doctor will discuss the procedure with you, and you can ask questions. Write down your questions and concerns, and your health care provider will discuss them with you prior to the procedure. You can ask questions after your physician explains the process. Before the procedure, discuss any concerns or inquiries that you may have with a physician. To assist you in remembering your questions and concerns, consider bringing a family member or close friend to the doctor's visit.

You may be asked to sign a consent document to authorize the operation. If something is unclear, thoroughly read the form and ask questions.

If the test is part of a biopsy, you might be asked to cease taking blood thinners, like aspirin, for a week or so before to the procedure.

You generally don't have to stop drinking or eating beforehand. You also generally won't be asked to take medicine to relax (sedation).

You will probably receive a small enema before the test.

You may be asked to follow other instructions your provider provides you with to prepare.

What is done during a prostate/rectal ultrasound?

You can have a prostate/rectal ultrasound as an outpatient or during a hospital admission. The procedure for having the test is different depending on your condition and your doctor's policies.

Usually, a prostate/rectal ultrasound consists of the following steps:

You will be asked to take off any clothing, jewellery, or other items that might interfere with the procedure.
If you are asked to undress, you will receive a gown.
You will be on an exam table lying on your left side with your knees drawn up to your chest.
A digital rectal exam might be done by the healthcare provider before the ultrasound.
The provider applies a clear gel to the transducer and inserts the probe into the rectum. During this time, you might experience a fullness of the rectum.
The provider will rotate the transducer a few times to view various portions of the prostate gland and other organs.
If blood flow is what is being examined, you will hear a whoosh, whoosh as the Doppler probe is applied.
After the test, the provider will clean the gel off.

A prostate/rectal ultrasound can be uncomfortable and you will have to hold very still during the exam. The gel feels cool and damp. All comfort measures will be used by the technologist and the scan will be done as fast as they can to keep the discomfort to a minimum.

Results of a Prostate/Rectal Ultrasound

Prostate Size and Shape – Confirms enlargement, shrinkage, or abnormal growth patterns.
Detection of Masses – Identifies nodules, tumors, or suspicious lesions in the prostate or rectum.
Cancer Staging – Provides information about the extent of rectal or prostate cancer.
Biopsy Guidance – Ensures precise needle placement for tissue sampling.
Blood Flow Assessment – Reveals whether circulation to the prostate is normal or restricted.
Follow-up Information – Helps doctors compare with previous scans to monitor progression or improvement.

What happens after a prostate/rectal ultrasound?

You require no special treatment after a prostate/rectal ultrasound. You can resume your regular diet and activities unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Prostate or Rectal Ultrasound in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital is one of the best hospitals for Prostate or Rectal Ultrasound in Lucknow, India. Our expert urologists use advanced tools to give accurate results, quick diagnosis, and better long-term care. We offer the best evaluation and treatment support with effective and affordable pricing, making the Prostate or Rectal Ultrasound cost suitable for patients seeking high-quality urology care in Lucknow, India.