Prostate Biopsy
A prostate biopsy is a medical test that helps identify prostate cancer. It is performed in the clinic, and you will be able to go home immediately after the procedure.
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What is a Prostate Biopsy?
A prostate biopsy is a procedure that allows your doctor to take small tissue samples from your prostate to check for cancer. During the procedure, an ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum to help visualize the prostate, and a needle is used to collect the samples. Depending on the approach your doctor uses, the needle will either pass through the rectum (alongside the ultrasound probe) or through the perineum — the area between the scrotum and anus.
- A transrectal biopsy is performed with you lying on your side.
- A transperineal biopsy is performed with your legs in stirrups.
Your doctor will inject a local numbing anesthetic (lidocaine) around the prostate before taking the samples, so you’ll be as comfortable as possible. In a typical biopsy, about 12 tissue samples are collected from different locations across the prostate. If you’re having an MRI-guided fusion biopsy, additional targeted samples may also be taken.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The biopsy itself usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes, though you should plan for some additional time beforehand for preparation and setup. The procedure is generally well-tolerated, though you may feel some discomfort during or after.
While you are able to drive yourself home, we recommend having someone with you to drive if at all possible.
What Happens After?
Once your samples are collected, they’ll be sent to a pathology lab where specialists will examine the tissue for the presence of cancer cells. Results are typically available within one to two weeks.
The main risks to be aware of after your biopsy include infection and blood in your urine, semen, or stool. These are common and usually resolve on their own, but your care team will let you know what to watch for and when to reach out.