Your doctor has requested that you have a prostate biopsy. This will help answer some of the most common questions.
What is a biopsy?
A biopsy is a sampling of an area of tissue.
Who does the procedure?
A radiologist (x-ray doctor) performs the procedure, with assistance from technologists.
What preparations must I take before the exam?
You will need to have blood work done prior to the examination. You will also need to have a fleet enema one hour prior to the appointment. Your urologist will give you a prescription for antibiotics. Please make sure you take these as directed.
What do I do on the day of the test?
Report to Radiology approximately 20 minutes before your scheduled time if you have not been contacted by the Admitting Office.
What happens during the procedure?
A probe will be inserted into the rectum with a guide attached. A needle is inserted through the guide and tissue samples are taken.
How long does it take?
The entire procedure takes about an hour.
What will I be able to do following the exam?
We recommend that you just rest on the day of the biopsy. As long as you are feeling up to it, you can resume normal activity the following day. You will need to continue your antibiotics as instructed by your urologist.
Are there complications?
Most people tolerate the exam without difficulty. You may have some bleeding following this exam. This is normal and will be explained to you by the radiologist after the procedure.
