Definition
A transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) is a test that uses sound waves to view the prostate and surrounding tissue.
Reasons for Procedure
A TRUS is done to look for problems in the rectum and surrounding structures, such as the prostate. It may also be done to help guide a needle during a prostate biopsy .
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
The care team may meet with you to talk about:
- Any allergies you may have
- Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to stop taking them before the TRUS
- Giving yourself an enema before the exam to empty the colon and rectum
- Whether you need a ride to and from the TRUS
Anesthesia
No anesthesia is needed.
Description of the Procedure
You will be asked to urinate before the TRUS. You will lie on a table on your left side with your knees bent toward your chest. A probe the size of a finger will be coated with a gel. It will then be inserted into the rectum. Images of the prostate and surrounding tissue will be taken. The probe will be removed.
How Long Will It Take?
30 minutes
Will It Hurt?
You will feel mild pressure or fullness when the probe is inserted.
Average Hospital Stay
You will be able to go home the same day.
Post-procedure Care
After the TRUS, you will be given a towel to clean yourself.
At Home
You will be able to go back to normal activities right away. The test results will be sent to your doctor. Make sure to call if you do not hear back from your doctor about the test.
Call Your Doctor
Call the doctor if you have any symptoms that become worse.
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.
RESOURCES
National Cancer Institute https://www.cancer.gov
RadiologyInfo.org—Radiological Society of North America, Inc. https://www.radiologyinfo.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Cancer Society https://www.cancer.ca
Health Canada https://www.canada.ca
References
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Prostate cancer: diagnosis and treatment. NICE 2014 Jan:CG175
Prostate or transrectal ultrasound. Cedars Sinai website. Available at: https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Patients/Programs-and-Services/Imaging-Center/For-Patients/Exams-by-Procedure/Ultrasound/Prostate-or-Transrectal-Ultrasound.aspx. Accessed May 26, 2020.
Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS). Canadian Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/diagnosis-and-treatment/tests-and-procedures/transrectal-ultrasound-trus/?region=on. Accessed May 26, 2020.
Ultrasound—prostate. RadiologyInfo.org—Radiological Society of North America, Inc. website. Available at: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=us-prostate. Updated January 28, 2020. Accessed May 26, 2020.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
- Review Date: 08/2020