A prostate biopsy is a surgical procedure in which a small needle is inserted into the prostate gland and a small sample of tissue is removed. MayoClinic.com reports that prostate biopsies are most common in cases where prostate cancer is suspected. Tissue samples taken during the biopsy are used to confirm or refute the cancer diagnosis. The procedure is performed by a urologist, a doctor who specializes in treating the urinary system and men's sex organs, and takes about 15 minutes to complete. As with all medical procedures, some risks are involved in a prostate biopsy.
Bleeding
MayoClinic.com reports that bleeding is common after a prostate biopsy. Patients may notice blood in their urine, semen, or with bowel movements for a few days to a few weeks. Bleeding should be minimal and intermittent. Patients experiencing heavy or continuous bleeding should notify their doctors immediately. Also, patients taking blood-thinning medications should check with their doctors prior to resuming the medications as they increase the chance of heavy bleeding after the biopsy.
Infection
An infection may occur in the prostate gland or the urinary tract following a biopsy, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Cancer Centers. Though infection after a prostate biopsy is rare, if one develops, it is treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of a prostate gland or urinary tract infection may include fever, pain or burning with urination, frequent urination and trouble starting to urinate.
Urinary Retention
Some men may experience urinary retention after a prostate biopsy. Urinary retention is difficulty passing urine out of the body. MayoClinic.com reports that in some cases, a temporary urinary catheter is necessary to drain urine from the bladder. Urinary retention usually resolves on its own. Patients who are unable to urinate for eight or more hours should consult their doctors for further medical advice.
