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Prostate biopsy
It is the procedure used for the extraction of prostate tissue samples when the presence of adenocarcinoma is suspected.
An accurate test
Prostate biopsy is performed at the suggestion of the urologist when he has detected in previous studies an imbalance in prostate antigen levels or irregularities in digital rectal examination.
It is estimated that 1 in 6 to 8 men is prone to prostate cancer.
It is the type of cancer that most affects the male population around 40 years of age.
Technological tools
The ultrasound probe is one of the tools to be used to obtain images of the prostate and gently guide the needle to the exact biopsy site.
Desensitization of the area
The patient is given an anesthetic injection to help reduce the sensation of pain or discomfort associated with the procedure.
The Specialist
Our experts perform this procedure in a professional manner using all their skills and experience.
The process begins with the cleaning of the area and the application of a lubricating gel, then the urologist will introduce an ultrasound probe into the rectum to fulfill 2 essential functions:
- Find the right place to inject the anesthesia.
- Orient the extraction needle to the key point.
Once the physician has gained internal access to the suspicious site, he or she will begin to collect small sections of tissue using a thin spring-loaded needle. These samples will then be analyzed by a pathologist, who should take less than a week to deliver the results of the study. The transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy usually takes about 30 minutes in total.
The urologist may recommend an ultrasound-guided transrectal prostate biopsy for 4 specific reasons:
- Because prostate antigen tests have shown higher levels than the values common to the patient's age.
- When lumps or abnormalities have been found during routine rectal examination.
- If the results of previous biopsies have not been sufficiently conclusive.
- If there are suspicious findings on imaging studies.
This type of procedure does not put the patient's life at risk at any time, however, in certain cases the following conditions may occur:
- Rectal bleeding after biopsy.
- Presence of blood in the semen.
- Appearance of slight bleeding in the urine.
- Temporary difficulty urinating.
- Urinary tract or prostate infection.
Most of these symptoms are transient and are part of the normal sequelae of this type of biopsy, their appearance should not alarm the patient.
General recommendations include:
- Little physical activity within the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
- Antibiotics to prevent infections.
- Be on the lookout for any type of severe discomfort such as: high fever, constant difficulty urinating, heavy bleeding or hemorrhage, excessive pain. If you notice any of these you should contact your doctor immediately.
How to prepare before a prostate biopsy?
In the previous visits to the urologist you will be instructed on the steps to follow to ensure a successful diagnosis. In most cases, it is recommended to stop taking medications that may delay clotting at least 1 week before the prostate biopsy.
The day before the test, it is advisable to eat soft or liquid meals, as well as the application of a rectal enema to help you completely clean your intestines. Do not forget to wear comfortable clothes and leave accessories and any metallic objects at home before going to this important medical appointment.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided prostate biopsy
Magnetic resonance imaging is a very useful means of accurately guiding the biopsy needles to the prostate sites to be studied.
They are also used to determine the stage and extent of cancer in patients with a positive diagnosis.
This procedure also includes the placement of a rectal probe, so the patient will receive sedation to avoid discomfort during the test.
Transperineal biopsy
In this analysis, the approach is the extraction of samples through punctures with a fine needle directly from the male perineal area (point between the scrotum and the rectum); in this way, the introduction of rectal probes is avoided in those patients who have contraindications in this regard.
Benefits
- It is the main diagnostic test for prostate cancer.
- It is a safe and highly effective technique.
- As a method of prevention, it allows cancer to be detected before it spreads.
- It is not as invasive as it is believed to be, the discomfort caused during the biopsy disappears quickly.
- It functions as a means of surveillance to periodically corroborate cancer progression in positive patients.
Prostate biopsy results
The laboratory usually issues the results of a prostate biopsy in 1 week or less. These results may indicate:
- Positive: When the presence of cancer cells has been observed in the sample.
- Negative: When no evidence of cancer has been noted.
- Suspicious: When the sample reflects an abnormality, but it is not 100% conclusive. To clarify doubts, the specialist may recommend a new prostate biopsy in the following days.
Frequently Asked Questions
In most cases local anesthesia is usually applied to numb the area to be treated, so the procedure will be completely painless and you will only feel the brief prick of anesthesia minutes before starting the collection of the samples.
Taking a prostate biopsy does not limit erection or penile sensitivity. However, it is recommended to pause sexual activity for at least the first 48 hours after the procedure.
The patient will require the help of a family member or friend to travel home from the clinic as preventive care for the effects of anesthesia. The doctor may advise you to stay away from strenuous physical activities for 3 days following the biopsy; after 48 to 72 hours of relative rest, you can resume your routines progressively as long as there is no pain.
During the first 24 to 48 hours the patient may experience the following:
- Discomfort or sensation of pain in the pelvic area.
- Burning when urinating.
- Frequent urination.
- Appearance of blood in urine or semen.
- Rectal bleeding.
Generally, taking painkillers, antibiotics and resting for a couple of days is enough to improve all symptoms.
On the other hand, the most serious complications resulting from a prostate biopsy include: urinary retention and urinary tract infection. Both should be evaluated by the physician immediately.