Ultrasound elastography

Measuring the elasticity of prostate tissue

Ultrasound elastography is an imaging technique that can visualize suspected tumour tissue in the prostate by colour on an ultrasound monitor. Using ultrasound elastography the elasticity of tissue, in this case the hardness of prostate tissue, can be measured. Tumour tissue is usually harder than healthy tissue. The ?hardness? of suspected tumour tissue can be detected with this method. Ultrasound elastography achieves significantly more reliable results than conventional ultrasound for detection of tumour areas in the prostate.

Targeted biopsies in the tumour area

As with conventional ultrasonography, the exam is done transrectally, which means through the rectum. An elastograph visualizes different degrees of tissue hardness in different colours in an elastogram, the ultrasound image. This enables the experienced physician to recognize possible tumour areas and take one or more targeted biopsies in the tumour area. These biopsies are then evaluated immediately in the Pathology Department so that a diagnosis is quickly available.

Costs for ultrasound elastography

The costs for ultrasound elastography are billed based on the German regulations on physician's fees (GOÄ).

Please ask your health insurance whether they will cover the costs for imaging diagnostics.

If an additional biopsy is required, the cost will be stated separately on the bill and is covered by German private health insurance.