How Is a Prostate Needle Biopsy Performed?
When It’s Needed Patients will be referred for a prostate needle biopsy if there is suspected prostate cancer. This could be because of elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, changes in the size of the prostate, or growths felt in or around the gland. A needle biopsy is the least invasive way of diagnosing cancerous cells. Pre-surgical About a week prior to surgery, patients are asked to stop taking anti-inflammatories and asprin to limit bleeding risk. Blood work is ordered to check for any other illness and gauge PSA levels. A pre-surgical exam by an internist may be required, depending on the man’s health and if there are chronic conditions (heart disease, diabetes) present. An enema is often recommended, since most needle biopsies are done with transrectal (through the rectum) ultrasound. Some physicians also recommend antibiotics prior to the biopsy to help protect against infection. Procedure A prostate needle biopsy is usually performed at the office of a urologist. A
