Our Summary
This research paper is about how doctors diagnose prostate cancer. Usually, they use a method called a transrectal needle biopsy, which involves using an ultrasound to guide a needle through the rectum to take a sample of the prostate. However, this method can sometimes cause infections, especially as bacteria are becoming more resistant to antibiotics.
This concern has led to increased interest in a different method called a transperineal prostate biopsy. In this method, the needle goes through the skin between the anus and the scrotum (called the perineum) to reach the prostate, which helps avoid causing an infection in the rectum. This paper talks about how this method has developed over time, how it’s technically performed, and what the current recommendations are for using it.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of a prostate needle biopsy?
- What are the risks associated with conventional ultrasound-guided transrectal needle biopsies?
- How do transperineal prostate biopsies reduce the risk of infection?
Doctor’s Tip
One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about prostate biopsy is to discuss the option of a transperineal biopsy as it can reduce the risk of infection compared to the traditional transrectal approach. This approach involves accessing the prostate through the skin between the scrotum and anus, minimizing the risk of introducing bacteria from the rectum. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of different biopsy techniques with your doctor to determine the best approach for your individual situation.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended for a prostate biopsy include those with elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, abnormal digital rectal exam findings, or a strong family history of prostate cancer. Additionally, patients who have previously had a negative biopsy but continue to have concerning symptoms or laboratory results may also be recommended for a repeat biopsy. Older patients with comorbidities that may impact treatment decisions may also be candidates for a prostate biopsy to assess the aggressiveness of any potential cancer. Ultimately, the decision to undergo a prostate biopsy should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate course of action based on individual risk factors and concerns.
Timeline
Before the prostate biopsy:
- Patient may undergo a digital rectal exam to check for abnormalities in the prostate
- Blood tests may be conducted to check for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels
- Patient may receive antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection during the biopsy
After the prostate biopsy:
- Patient may experience some discomfort or pain in the perineal area
- Patient may notice blood in urine or semen for a few days after the biopsy
- Results of the biopsy may take a few days to a week to come back, during which the patient may experience anxiety or uncertainty
- Depending on the results, further treatment or monitoring may be recommended by the healthcare provider.
What to Ask Your Doctor
- What are the reasons for recommending a prostate biopsy?
- How is a transperineal prostate biopsy performed, and how does it differ from a transrectal biopsy?
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with a transperineal biopsy?
- How accurate is a transperineal biopsy in detecting prostate cancer compared to a transrectal biopsy?
- How long does the procedure take, and what is the recovery time?
- Will I need to follow any specific post-biopsy care instructions?
- What happens if the biopsy results come back positive for cancer?
- Are there any alternative diagnostic tests or procedures that could be considered instead of a biopsy?
- How often should prostate biopsies be repeated for monitoring purposes, if at all?
- Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take before or after the biopsy procedure?
Reference
Authors: Pedersen TB, Tiessen S, Poulsen MH. Journal: Ugeskr Laeger. 2022 Nov 21;184(47):V05220297. PMID: 36426834