The role of transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) in the evaluation of cancer of the prostate.

While TRUS is not of value as a screening tool, it is of considerable value in the early detection of cancer of the prostate in men with abnormal DRE and/or PSA. TRUS enables calculation of PSA density to identify men at low risk, thus eliminating many unnecessary biopsies. This results in favorable impact on both cost and morbidity. When biopsy is necessary, TRUS greatly enhances accuracy. Its role in staging is of less importance but can be useful when positive, and it adds little to the cost or complexity of the examination.