A prostate scan, commonly performed as a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS), is a diagnostic imaging test used to evaluate the health of the prostate gland in men. Located just below the urinary bladder, this small, walnut-sized gland plays a vital role in the male reproductive system. The procedure involves gently inserting a slim, lubricated probe into the rectum, which sits directly next to the prostate. Because of this close proximity, high-frequency sound waves can bypass surrounding tissue to produce highly detailed, real-time images of the gland's exact size, shape, and internal structure.

Physicians primarily order a prostate scan to investigate symptoms like difficulty urinating, a weak urinary stream, frequent nighttime urination, or elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests. It is highly effective for detecting prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia), inflammation (prostatitis), and suspected tumors. Additionally, if a lesion requires further testing, doctors use this live ultrasound imaging to safely guide biopsy needles.