When is it recommended to perform a biopsy?
Prostate biopsy is the removal of a sample of prostate tissue for analysis. It is recommended if abnormalities are observed during a digital rectal examination or if there are elevated values of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. The aim is to detect early any evidence of cancer. It is of vital importance, since treating the disease in its initial stage favors its cure and reduces the aggressiveness of subsequent treatment.
What does Histoscanning biopsy consist of?
Histoscanning is a diagnostic method that allows processing data obtained from a transrectal ultrasound. After performing the scan, a computer system indicates in color the suspicious areas of tumor, allowing to detect them for a precise extraction of the tissue samples during the biopsy. Applying the use of Histoscanning to the biopsy allows achieving high rates of identification of prostate adenocarcinoma with precise localization in the gland.
How should the patient prepare for the biopsy?
Histoscanning followed by biopsy is performed under sedation. The patient must maintain an absolute diet from six hours prior to the procedure and if he/she is taking medication he/she must inform the medical team.
Are there any side effects?
After the biopsy, antibiotics are prescribed for the following three days to prevent infection. The appearance of blood in the urine, stool or semen is frequent during the first weeks. As long as the amounts of blood are not excessive, there is no cause for concern. If problems with urination or high fever occur, a physician should be consulted.