Prostate Biopsy

There are three ways a prostate biopsy can be performed:

• • Transrectal ultrasound guided (TRUS) biopsy of the prostate.
  • Transperineal (TP) biopsy of the prostate.
  • MRI guided biopsy of the prostate.

The prostate tissue samples are sent to the laboratory for testing. The results are available within a few days.

TRUS biopsy of the prostate: The procedure is performed with a sedation anaesthetic.

An ultrasound probe is inserted into your rectum (back passage) to visualise your prostate.

A needle is passed through your rectum into the prostate in multiple places to take samples of tissue.

TRUS biopsy is the quickest and simplest way to biopsy the prostate.

MRI guided biopsy of the prostate: The procedure is performed with a light sedation anaesthetic while you are inside an MRI machine.

A biopsy probe is inserted into your rectum. An MRI scan is performed to visualise your prostate.

A needle is passed through your rectum into your prostate to take samples of tissue.

MRI guided biopsy is used to sample small or hard to reach abnormalities.

A prostate biopsy is usually performed as day surgery. You can go home on the same day of the surgery as long as you are accompanied by a responsible adult.

You may have some mild bladder/prostate discomfort and burning/stinging when passing urine for a few days.

You may have mild bruising of your perineum, scrotum and penis. This may take a few weeks to clear.

You may notice blood in your urine, semen, and your bowel motions. Blood in your urine and bowel motions will usually clear within a few days. Blood in your semen may take a few months to clear.

You can return to sedentary work the day after your biopsy. If your job involves physical work, you may wish to return to light work for a few days.

It is usually safe to drive 24 hours after the anaesthetic.

You can return to sexual activity immediately after the biopsy