Prostate Biopsy
WHAT IS THE PROSTATE?
The prostate are small glands that can only be found in males. It is located below the bladder and covers the urethra. The prostate is what also makes semen.
WHAT IS A PROSTATE BIOPSY?
During the procedure of performing a prostate biopsy a sample of tissue is taken from the prostate by using a biopsy needle. Once removed this sample of tissue is taken to the lab and examined for cancer or abnormal cells.
WHY WOULD I NEED A PROSTATE BIOPSY?
Often a prostate biopsy is done when other exams and test indicate that there may be an issue with the prostate gland. In most cases elevated or abnormal PSA levels are indicators of a prostate biopsy. A prostate biopsy is the best way to diagnose prostate cancer which is why it is important to perform.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A PROSTATE BIOPSY?
Majority of the time, a prostate biopsy is an outpatient procedure. However, these procedures may vary based on each individual condition and your provider's practice.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF A PROSTATE BIOPSY?
Possible procedure complication includes the following:
- Discomfort at the site of the procedure
- Bruising at the site of the procedure
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Difficulty urinating
HOW IS A PROSTATE BIOPSY PERFORMED?
A prostate biopsy can be performed many ways but at Texas Urological clinic the most common, Transrectal Method is used.
Transrectal Method:
You will remove your clothing and put on a hospital gown.
You will be positioned on your left side, with your knees bent.
This type of biopsy may be done with a local anesthetic to numb the tissue the needle will pass through.
Usually, a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) will be used to guide the placement of the biopsy needle.
The healthcare provider will use a spring-loaded tool that quickly inserts a needle through the wall of the rectum into the prostate gland. You may feel discomfort or pressure when the needle enters the prostate gland.
The needle is put in several times to take tissue samples from different parts of the gland.
The prostate tissue samples will be sent to outside pathology lab.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A PROSTATE BIOPSY?
If a local anesthetic is used for the procedure than normal activities may be resumes unless your healthcare provider instructs you otherwise. After the procedure, you may feel the urge to have a bowel movement or urinate however the feeling should pass after a few hours.
A few days after the biopsy it is common that blood may appear in your urine or stool. Blood may appear red or reddish brown. Additionally, it is also common that blood may also appear in your ejaculate a few weeks after the biopsy as well.
The site where the biopsy was performed may be tender and sore for several days after the procedure. A pain reliver for discomfort and soreness may be recommended by your healthcare provider. Pain relivers such as Aspirin may increase the chance of bleeding so make sure to take only recommended medicines.
Call your healthcare provider if any of the following occur:
- Increase in the amount of blood in your urine or stool
- Belly or pelvic pain
- Trouble urinating
- Changes in the way your urine looks or smells or burning with urination (may be signs of infection)
- Fever and/or chills
