A transrectal biopsy is a procedure used to obtain tissue samples from the prostate gland for the diagnosis of prostate cancer or other abnormalities. During the procedure, a needle is inserted through the wall of the rectum into the prostate, guided by transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) to ensure precise targeting of the suspicious areas. The biopsy is usually performed with the patient under local anesthesia to reduce discomfort. Multiple tissue samples, typically 12 to 14, are taken from different regions of the prostate to ensure comprehensive evaluation.
The primary reason for conducting a transrectal biopsy is to detect or rule out prostate cancer in men who have elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels or abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE) results. It is the most commonly used method for prostate biopsies due to its relatively straightforward approach and accuracy in obtaining tissue samples. The tissue collected is then examined microscopically to determine the presence and severity of cancerous or abnormal cells. Complications associated with transrectal biopsy can include bleeding in the rectum or urine, infection, and blood in the semen. There is also a risk of developing a serious infection such as sepsis, although this is rare, especially when antibiotics are given before the procedure. Some patients may experience temporary urinary retention or discomfort following the biopsy. Despite these risks, the transrectal biopsy remains a widely used and effective diagnostic tool for prostate cancer detection, providing critical information for determining the appropriate treatment options.
