Prostate Cancer Awareness Series – By Wellnect India
Introduction: Traditional Biopsy Has Served Us Well — But It Has Limitations
In the previous episode, we learned about the traditional TRUS (Transrectal Ultrasound) biopsy.
It’s been used for decades. It’s helpful. But it’s not perfect.
Many patients undergo a biopsy, and the cancer is missed. Or, they’re diagnosed late — after the disease has already spread.
That’s where a new-age, high-resolution imaging system comes in —
Micro-Ultrasound (ExactVu™)
In this Article, we’ll explain what it is, how it works, and why it is transforming prostate cancer detection across the world.
What Is Micro-Ultrasound?
Micro-Ultrasound is an advanced diagnostic imaging technology that uses 29 MHz ultrasound frequency (vs. 6–12 MHz in traditional ultrasound) — allowing extremely detailed, real-time images of the prostate.
The most widely used micro-ultrasound system in prostate care is the ExactVu™ platform, developed in Canada and now used by top urologists across the world.
What Makes Micro-Ultrasound Different?
Let’s compare it to traditional TRUS biopsy:
| Feature | Traditional TRUS | Micro-Ultrasound (ExactVu) |
| Resolution | Low to moderate | Ultra-high resolution |
| Imaging | 2D, low clarity | Real-time, HD-like detail |
| Targeting | Blind/random core sampling | Targeted biopsy based on PRI-MUS score |
| Cancer Detection | 70–80% | Up to 95% detection accuracy |
| Procedure Time | 20–30 min | Similar or shorter |
| Cost | Lower | Slightly higher, but more efficient |
So in short — Micro-Ultrasound helps the doctor see the tumor clearly and target it with precision.
What Is PRI-MUS?
Micro-ultrasound introduces a unique scoring system called:
PRI-MUS = Prostate Risk Identification using Micro-Ultrasound
This is similar to PI-RADS used in MRI, but:
- Easier to learn and use
- Faster
- Done during the same session as the biopsy
- Avoids delay of MRI appointment, reporting, etc.
Doctors assign a PRI-MUS score (1 to 5) based on what they see on screen, helping them identify which areas are most suspicious and should be targeted for biopsy.
How Does the ExactVu Biopsy Work?
Here’s the typical procedure using ExactVu:
- Preparation: The patient lies on their side, just like in TRUS biopsy.
- Real-time Imaging: The ExactVu probe is inserted and shows high-resolution prostate images.
- PRI-MUS Mapping: Urologist identifies suspicious areas using PRI-MUS score.
- Targeted Biopsy: Needle is guided to specific lesions, not random areas.
- Diagnosis: Accurate tissue samples are sent for lab testing.
The process is faster, more targeted, and more reliable.
Why Should Patients Prefer Micro-Ultrasound?
Here’s what makes Micro-Ultrasound patient-friendly:
- ✅ Fewer needle pricks (as biopsy is targeted)
- ✅ More accurate diagnosis
- ✅ Less chance of missing cancer
- ✅ No need to wait for MRI
- ✅ Real-time results — faster decisions
- ✅ Ideal for men who can’t undergo MRI (due to implants, claustrophobia, etc.)
🇮🇳 Is It Available in India?
Yes!
ExactVu is now being used by top urologists in India at premium hospitals and centers — and it is gradually becoming more accessible.
Wellnect India is proud to bring this cutting-edge technology to Indian urologists and hospitals through authorized partnerships.
“Thanks to ExactVu, we’re now able to detect prostate cancer at earlier stages, with more clarity, and with greater patient comfort.”
— Dr. Mahesh Desai, MPUH Hospital
Wellnect’s Vision: Modern Tools for Modern Challenges
At Wellnect, our mission is to empower healthcare providers with the latest medical technologies.
Our focus is not just on products — but on patient awareness, doctor education, and life-saving diagnosis.
Micro-Ultrasound is not just a device —
it is a revolution in prostate cancer care.
🔜 Coming Up Next
In Episode 7, we’ll look at the bigger picture:
What are the treatment options if prostate cancer is diagnosed?
Can it be managed or cured?
What role does laser, surgery, or hormone therapy play?
Stay tuned as we continue to educate and empower.