Prostate biopsy is a procedure that helps to decide whether patients have prostate cancer or not. Prostate biopsy involves taking and analyzing small samples of the prostate gland to detect cancerous cells. Transurethral prostate biopsy is a type of prostate biopsy conducted with a lighted cystoscope going through the urethra. The urethra is a tube in the penis, connecting the bladder with the outside. Transurethral prostate biopsy allows physicians to see the prostate gland directly and to have better control of which part(s) of the prostate gland to be taken out. Transurethral prostate biopsy is a relatively safe procedure with few side effects.
Blood in Urine and Semen
Patients who undergo transurethral prostate biopsy may experience blood in the urine and the semen, according to Prostate Cancer Treatment Guide. Blood in the urine may continue from three days up to two months after the biopsy.
Infections of Urinary Tract
According to "Clinical Oncology," a small fraction--less than 0.5 percent--of patients may experience infections of urinary tract. Infections of urinary tract often require short-term hospitalization.
Short-Term Side Effects
Since transurethral prostate biopsy requires local anesthesia, some patients might experience soreness, swelling and pelvic discomfort. However, these symptoms often disappear after one or two days.
Impotence and Urinary Incontinence
In rare cases, transurethral prostate biopsy might lead to sexual dysfunction, according to American Cancer Society. Patients also might experience urinary incontinence and will be unable to control urine flow. The symptoms of impotence and urinary incontinence tend to wear off after few weeks following the biopsy, according to "Clinical Oncology."
References
- Prostate Cancer Treatment Guide: The Prostate Cancer Biopsy Procedure
- American Cancer Society: Prostate Biopsy
- "Clinical Oncology;" Abeloff et al.; 2007
