[Prostatic ultrasonography in routine radiological practice: a survey of 122 radiologists].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the indications and practical modalities of prostatic ultrasonography in routine radiological practice.

METHODS

An anonymous questionnaire composed of 18 multiple choice questions was sent to 122 radiologists.

RESULTS

Among the 76 responses, 90% were men, 90% were in private practice and 94% regularly performed prostatic ultrasonography without clinical information (81%). The prostatic examination was performed by transrectal ultrasonography (60%) combined with vesical and renal ultrasonography. The indications were: urinary functional disorders (56%) and abnormal PSA (40%). Prostatic ultrasonography was considered to be useful to calculate prostatic volumes by 59% of radiologists and in the staging of prostatic cancer (81%). 80% of radiologists did not start by performing digital rectal examination. 59% of patients were informed.

CONCLUSION

The observed indications did not correspond to urological consensus recommendations, but ultrasonography was performed according to classical recommendations. This study could justify a more precise definition of the role of ultrasonography in prostatic disease.