Ultrasound Transrectal

During the procedure, you'll lie on your side with your knees bent towards your chest. The doctor will insert a small, lubricated probe into your rectum. This probe sends out and picks up sound waves, creating a live image of the rectum and nearby structures on a monitor. The procedure typically takes about 10-20 minutes.

While you might experience a sense of pressure or mild discomfort when the probe is inserted, the procedure is generally not painful. If you're worried about discomfort, talk to your healthcare provider beforehand. They can provide guidance and suggest ways to make you more comfortable.

The results are usually available within a few days after the procedure. The images from the ultrasound will be analyzed by a radiologist, and the report will be sent to your doctor, who will discuss the findings with you.

Transrectal ultrasound is a safe procedure with minimal risks. However, as with any procedure, there's a small risk of infection or bleeding. If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or fever after the procedure, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Your doctor might recommend a transrectal ultrasound if they suspect issues with your rectum or nearby structures. For men, it's commonly used to evaluate the prostate gland for signs of conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer. In women, it can be used to evaluate conditions related to the female reproductive system.

Yes, you should be able to return to your regular activities immediately after the procedure, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Yes, typically, there are no dietary restrictions before a transrectal ultrasound. However, you may be asked to use a rectal enema to clean out your rectum before the procedure.

If you're pregnant or suspect you might be, inform your healthcare provider. They will assess the benefits and risks to decide the most appropriate course of action.

If your doctor finds anything unusual during the ultrasound, they will discuss the results with you and recommend next steps. This might involve further testing, referrals to specialists, or starting treatment.

The quality of the images and the accuracy of the results can be affected by several factors, such as patient movement during the scan, excessive gas or stool in the rectum, or a poor response to the rectal enema.

A transrectal ultrasound is a useful diagnostic tool for evaluating the health of your rectum and nearby structures. Remember to follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor, and do not hesitate to ask any questions or express any concerns you may have before the procedure. Your health and comfort are always the top priorities.