FAQ for Patients

PCaVision is an AI software application that helps urologists detecting prostate cancer more quickly and accurately using 3D ultrasound. It analyzes 3D ultrasound images of the prostate, suggesting the presence or absence, and if applicable, the location of possible cancerous lesions,, without the need for an MRI scan in the diagnostic pathway. This saves time and costs, and could provide a solution to the global capacity problem in prostate cancer diagnostics.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. Confirming whether cancer is present usually requires an MRI scan, which can take weeks to schedule and must be reviewed by a radiologist. Many hospitals don’t have enough MRI-capacity. PCaVision offers a reliable alternative that makes testing faster, easier to access and more affordable.

PCaVision works with a 3D ultrasound scan of the prostate. This is much like a standard prostate ultrasound, but with additional imaging techniques. During the scan, a small amount of a safe contrast fluid (SonoVue) is injected into a vein. This contrast fluid enables a better visualization of the blood flow in the smallest vessels in the prostate on the ultrasound image. The scan takes about 12 minutes. PCaVision’s AI then automatically analyzes the images and highlights any areas that might contain cancer. Your urologist reviews these results and decides if a biopsy is needed and if so, where to take the tissue samples.

  • Fast results – a diagnosis can often be made during the same appointment
  • No MRI needed – the test uses ultrasound only
  • Comfortable and safe – the ultrasound procedure is similar to existing prostate imaging
  • More accessible – reduces waiting times caused by limited MRI availability
  • Direct contact – you stay under the care of your urologist throughout the process

Most men being checked for prostate cancer are eligible. Your urologist will confirm if the test is suitable based on your medical history and previous results.

Yes. Both the ultrasound and contrast agent used are safe and have been used in medical imaging for many years. The contrast fluid (SonoVue by Bracco) has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) since 2001 for use in adults.

A PCaVision exam is tolerated by most patients. Similar to a regular prostate ultrasound exam, a probe is introduced into the rectum. Once this probe is in place, the patient can relax when prostate images are being acquired.

The contrast agent used is (different from contrast agents used in CT or MRI scans) usually well-tolerated. Side effects are limited and usually appear as headache, nausea, redness and pain at the injection site. Very rare are side effects such as anaphylactic shock or severe allergic reactions. Talk to your physician if you have any doubts.

The preparation is similar to the preparation of a regular ultrasound exam and can slightly differ per clinic. You will be informed about the required preparation by your urologist.

The PCaVision exam takes approximately 20 minutes. This includes the preparation of the scan, the ultrasound examination and getting dressed. The analysis of the PCaVision scan and the possible biopsy procedure are not included in this time.

Yes. Because the AI analysis happens automatically and the processing is mostly completed within 10 minutes after the scan was finished. Your urologist can usually discuss the findings during the same visit.

PCaVision is highly accurate, but like any method, it may miss very small or unusual tumors. Your urologist may combine it with other tests if needed.

PCaVision can be used to facilitate prostate cancer diagnosis without the need of MRI in the clinical pathway. PCaVision will give your urologist information about the presence and location of highly suspected lesions, targetable for prostate biopsies.

No. PCaVision provides the urologist with the necessary information to determine whether and where to take targeted biopsies.

PCaVision received its CE certification in July 2025. PCaVision will be available for clinical use from December 2025 in Europe, with country-specific availability depending on compliance with local regulatory requirements.