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What is a prostate biopsy?
The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland present in males that secretes fluid to nourish and transport sperm. The procedure to remove samples of tissue from the prostate to diagnose the presence of prostate cancer is called prostate biopsy. This treatment is usually suggested if cancer cells are found.
+91 8069990909 When is a prostate biopsy recommended?
The surgeon recommends this procedure when:
- The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test shows higher levels of antigen
- An abnormal lump is found during a digital rectal examination
- Previous records of biopsy have been proven abnormal and cancer negative, but second test shows positive
- Previous biopsy record was normal, yet the PSA levels are beyond the mark
What are the types of prostate biopsy?
For a prostate biopsy, tissue samples can be collected in two ways:
- Transrectal Biopsy: This is the most common method of performing a prostate biopsy. In this, the biopsy needle is passed through the wall of the rectum to collect the samples.
- Trans perineal Biopsy: This procedure requires an MRI or CT scan. The biopsy needle is inserted through a small cut made on the perineum (the area of skin) between the anus and scrotum, and samples of the tissue are collected.
What is the surgical procedure for prostate biopsy?
During a transrectal prostate biopsy, the patient will lie on one side and pull the knees close to the chest. The surgical area is cleaned and topical anesthesia (in the form of gel) is applied. A thin ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum for the surgeon to view the prostate. This probe will help identify the area that needs to be anesthetized, reduce the discomfort during biopsy, and also helps identify the area where the needle has to be inserted to collect the samples.
After numbing the area with an injection, a spring propelled needle is gently inserted and the cylindrical sections of tissues are collected. It will require 10-12 tissue samples for the biopsy to be accurately done. The patient will feel uncomfortable each time the needle collects a sample. The procedure normally takes 15-20 minutes to be completed.
What are the risks involved with this procedure?
Some of the risks involved in performing a prostate biopsy are:
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in the semen for few weeks post biopsy
- Blood in the urine for few days after biopsy
- Infection at the biopsy site, which is very rare and can be cured with antibiotics
What do you need to know about the post-operative care of prostate biopsy?
Depending on the type of anesthesia administered, the patient’s recovery process may differ from patient to patient.
With general anesthesia, the patient is moved to the recovery room for observation, where the patient’s blood pressure, pulse and breathing patterns are monitored. Once the parameters are stable and the patient is awake, he will be taken to the general room and discharged.
If local anesthesia was administered, the patient can resume normal activities and diet after consulting with the doctor. The patient might have the urge to urinate or pass stools, however, this urge wears off in a few hours.
In general, the doctor will recommend the patient to avoid lifting heavy weights, and strenuous exercises that puts pressure on the lower body for 24-48 hours.
An antibiotic will also be prescribed for few days to prevent any infections from developing.
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