Patient Prostate Resource

The Prostate

The prostate is the gland in the male reproductive system. The primary function of the gland is to produce fluid for semen. It is comprised of about 30% muscular tissue, with the rest consisting of glandular tissue. It is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate wraps around the urethra, which is a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the tip of the penis. The prostate is normally about the same size and shape as a walnut. However, as men get older the prostate may begin to increase in size.

Prostate cancer is a group of cancerous cells, or a malignant tumor, that usually begins along the outer part of the prostate. Early prostate cancer normally does not accompany any symptoms, however, as the cancer spreads, symptoms may become more likely. Some men in the early stages, or as the prostate cancer spreads, may experience some symptoms which may include difficulty urinating, frequent urination, particularly at night, painful or burning sensation during urination, interrupted stream or weak flow of urination, blood in urine or semen, painful ejaculation, pain or stiffness in lower back, pelvis, upper thighs or hips, or difficulty obtaining an erection.

The exact cause of prostate cancer has not yet been determined, although researchers have identified several risk factors that may contribute to the increased likelihood of the disease. These factors include family history, genetics and environment.

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located beneath the bladder and in front of the rectum. A capsule of fibrous tissue called the prostate capsule surrounds it. The urethra (tube that transports urine and sperm out of the body) passes through the prostate to the bladder neck. Prostate tissue produces prostate specific antigen and prostatic acid phosphatase, an enzyme found in seminal fluid (the milky substance that combines with sperm to form semen).

Envisioneering Medical focuses resources and technology to develop equipment to aid physicians in detection, diagnosis and treatment. The TargetScan 3D imaging and targeted biopsy system offers the first real advance in prostate imaging and biopsy in over a decade. It eases any discomfort of probing during examination, as once it is place, there is no need for repositioning. The system allows a physician to generate a true solid 3D image, manipulate it, and precisely plan and undertake a multi-sample biopsy of a targeted tissue mass in the prostate. Click to learn more about TargetScan 3D or ask your physician today.