Characterizing Finger Palpation in the Detection of Prostate Cancers and Abnormalities

Abstract

Prostate cancer is detected in part via the digital rectal examination. Training for this hands-on exam is limited, in particular, by feedback given trainees with respect to finger palpation. This work characterizes finger palpation technique exerted by participants, using a simulator that can electronically record finger pressure on the prostate gland and abnormalities. In principal, we analyze 1) global finger movement, 2) local finger movement and 3) average finger pressure. The analysis determined that participants utilize four patterns of global finger movement (U, V, L and line), three patterns of local finger movement (tapping, vibration, smooth movement), and distinct finger pressures (in Newtons). This analysis also determined that participants who utilized certain techniques were better able to detect presented abnormalities.