National survey of patterns employing targeted mri/US guided prostate biopsy in the diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer

Abstract

Background/aims: Targeted magnetic resonance imaging/ultrasound (MRI/US) guided biopsy is an emerging technology that has the potential to change standard of care for the diagnosis and management of prostate cancer. This technology is rapidly proliferating, however quantitative analysis of these trends are unavailable. The objective of this study was to assess urologist opinions regarding implementing MRI/US imaging into their practices. Methods: A questionnaire was distributed using research electronic data capture and completed by 291 practicing urologists within the United States registered through the American Urological Association. The survey gathered information regarding demographics, changes in MRI use, opinions on targeted MRI/US guided biopsy, and barriers to implementation. The survey results were analyzed using ANOVA. Results: Practice setting and geographic region were signifIcantly associated with implementation of MRI/US guided biopsy. Total 72% of urologists in academic centers report using MRI/US targeted biopsy, compared to 38% in solo private practice. In the northeast 68% of urologists report using MRI/US biopsy, compared to 44% in the western United States. Conclusion: While there are some reservations about employing MRI/US guided biopsy as standard of care in all prostate biopsies, the data suggests urologists support its use, and are making efforts to introduce targeted MRI/US guided biopsy into their practice. Regional and practice setting variations exist in implementation.