Vecto® utilises BiopSee® fusion software (Medcom, Germany), electro-magnetic (EM) tracking technology (VirtuTRAX, Civco) and Fujifilm Arietta biplanar US probe (Fujifilm, Japan).

A stepper mounted rectal US probe is utilised to provide stable image fusion, limit prostate distortion and minimise patient discomfort. With the patient in lithotomy position the anaesthetic technique delivers effective local anaesthesia (10–25 ml of 1% lidocaine) to the skin, pelvic floor muscles and the periapical space via a two-point transperineal approach, utilising venepuncture and spinal needles. Once anesthetised, sequential 3D US images of the prostate are captured and fused with the pre-contoured MRI images. The clinician optimises the fusion and places 2–4 target spheres in the MRI-detected lesions, planning both targeted and systematic biopsies digitally.

The Bard 17-gauge TruGuide coaxial needle sheath with a VirtuTRAX electromagnetic sensor is inserted and monitored in real-time. A Bard Max-Core 18g is passed through the sheath and the operator is guided to the pre-contoured target lesions. The real time tracking indicates when optimal alignment for biopsy is achieved. 

Biopsies are taken and recorded, meaning they can be used for future image guided treatment. We perform the procedure in the absence of prophylactic antibiotics, reducing development of antimicrobial resistance.