Prostate Biopsy: 5 Things You Must Know

The prostate is a small gland in men that produces part of the fluid that makes up semen. A prostate biopsy is a medical procedure for removing and analyzing suspicious tissue in the prostate.

A prostate biopsy is usually performed by a urologist, a physician who specializes in male sex organs and urinary system. If your doctor has ordered this procedure for you, there are some important things you should know.

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1. A prostate biopsy is done using a technique called needle core biopsy, according to Mayo Clinic. This type of biopsy uses a fine needle that is inserted to collect cells from the affected area for analysis.

2. A prostate biopsy can be ordered by your physician to diagnose or rule out prostate cancer if other tests have indicated a problem. It can also be used to determine the cause of an enlarged prostate gland.

3. WebMD describes three different methods for performing a prostate biopsy. A transrectal biopsy, the most common method, extracts the cells using a needle inserted through the rectum. In the perineal method, the needle is inserted into the skin between the rectum and the scrotum. Finally, in a transurethral prostate biopsy, a lighted scope called a cystoscope is inserted directly into the urethra so the prostate gland can be viewed. A special loop can be used to extract the cells through the scope. Depending on the method used, the procedure can take anywhere between 15 and 45 minutes.

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4. In most cases, a local anesthesia, or numbing medication, is used to lessen the discomfort of a prostate biopsy at the site where the needle is inserted, according to Mayo Clinic. A brief stinging sensation is common as this medication is injected. After that, pressure or some brief discomfort may be felt as the biopsy needle penetrates the wall of the prostate gland.

5. After the procedure, the biopsy site may feel tender or sore for a couple of days. You may be prescribed a mild pain killer, and you should be able to resume normal activities while you await the results of your prostate biopsy.

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