From novice to expert: analyzing the learning curve for MRI-transrectal ultrasonography fusion-guided transrectal prostate biopsy

• Published in: International urology and nephrology 2017-09, Vol.49 (9), p.1537-1544
• Main Authors: Mager, R., Brandt, M. P., Borgmann, H., Gust, K. M., Haferkamp, A., Kurosch, M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biopsy; Learning; Magnetic resonance imaging; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Nephrology; Prostate; Prostate cancer; Ultrasonic imaging; Ultrasound; Urology; Urology - Original Paper
• ISSN: 0301-1623; 1573-2584
• DOI: 10.1007/s11255-017-1642-7

Purpose To investigate the learning curve of a novice in MRI/TRUS software fusion biopsy and to compare his results with the expert standard at our institution. Methods Overall 126 MRI/TRUS fusion-guided transrectal biopsies were performed using an electromagnetic tracking ultrasonography platform. The learning progress of the novice was evaluated comparing his initial 42 procedures (group A) with his following 42 (group B). The institution’s expert standard (group C), which was compared to the novice’s groups, was defined by the expert’s experience of 42 MRI/TRUS fusion biopsies. Primary learning curve parameters were targeted biopsy detection quotient and biopsy time. Results Overall detection of prostate cancer was 64% (27/42), 62% (26/42) and 62% (26/42) in groups A, B and C, respectively. The median target biopsy detection quotient significantly increased ( p  = 0.04) in group B (0.75, interquartile range (IQR) 0.25–1.0) compared to group A. (0.33, IQR 0.2–0.5). Group C revealed a median detection quotient of 0.5 (IQR 0.25–0.76) that did not differ significantly from the novice’s groups ( p  = 0.2). Median biopsy time was significantly higher in group A (45 min, IQR 33–50 min) compared to groups B (25 min, IQR 23–29 min) and C (24 min, IQR 16–46 min) ( p