Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in American men. Prostate cancer is one of the most curable cancers thanks to early detection, precise classification and improved treatment options.
Some prostate cancers can grow and spread quickly, but most grow slowly. Screening for prostate cancer should be discussed with you primary care physician to discuss if and how to do it.
Many times, prostate cancer does not cause any symptoms, but more advanced prostate cancers do cause symptoms, such as:
- Problems urinating
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Erectile dysfunction
- Bone pain in the hip, back, etc.
For prostate cancer, Spectrum Health has a new technology for targeted biopsies called UroNav fusion biopsy. The standard practice is to perform systematic biopsy of the prostate, with samples taken from each part.
With prostate MRI, suspicious areas can be identified. These target areas can then be biopsied using the UroNav Fusion Biopsy system under real-time Ultrasound images. This technology allows them to detect aggressive tumors that may have otherwise been missed
The computer tracking system then enables them to record the exact location of each biopsy (targeted and systematic) so that we have a handle on where the cancer is if the man chooses to surveil it closely rather than pursue immediate treatment.
Dr. Brian Lane, Chief of Urology for Spectrum Health Medical Group, says that patients can reach out to receive a UroNav:
- If you have had prior evaluations for prostate cancer without successful identification of cancer.
- If you are currently on active surveillance for slow-growing prostate cancer, you can reduce the number of biopsies in follow-up with the use of prostate MRI with UroNav biopsy only for cause.
- You can have your primary care provider refer you to our office, or you can call directly to our office at the Spectrum Health Cancer Center.
To make an appointment with Dr. Lane, you can call (616) 267-7333. If you have been diagnosed with cancer and would like a second opinion or consultation, call 1-855-SHCANCER.
