Prostate Biopsies

The most common reason this test is performed is because either a blood test called PSA is abnormally high or the findings on examining the prostate through the back passage are abnormal. To scan the prostate gland a small probe is passed into the back passage and the image of the prostate appears on a screen. This type of scan is used to measure the size of the prostate. Twelve samples of the prostate are taken (biopsies) at the same time for examination under the microscope by a pathologist.

You will have been provided with a prescription for a course of antibiotics (Norfloxacin). The first tablet should be taken the night before the procedure and then on the morning of the procedure before you come into hospital (it is okay to have the antibiotic tablet and your other tablets in the morning with a sip of water). The remaining tablets should be taken as directed until completion of the course. Although not critical, but for more your own comfort, you should try to open your bowels prior to the procedure. You will be given some intravenous sedation by the anaesthetist for the procedure so you will need to fast (nothing to eat or drink) for 6 hours before the test. The procedure takes about 20 minutes.  You will need someone to drive you home as you will have been given a light anaesthetic.

Following a prostate biopsy you can expect to see some blood in the urine, bowel motions and in the semen. Any blood in the urine or bowel motions usually settles by a week although brownish discoloration of the semen can last for up to a couple of months. Uncommonly, you may develop an infection but this risk is minimised by the antibiotics administered. Infections can be very serious after a biopsy so it is important that you seek medical attention if you have symptoms of infection even if it is in the middle of the night you must seek Medical attention.

• As you were sedated, this will affect your judgment for about 24 hours.
• For your own safety do NOT drive any type of car, bike or other vehicle.  Do NOT operate machinery including cooking implements.
• Do NOT make important decisions or sign a legal document.
• Do NOT drink alcohol, take other mind-altering substances, or smoke. They may react with the anaesthetic drugs.
• Have an adult with you on the first night after your procedure.
• A light diet is recommended following your prostate biopsies.  A normal diet may be resumed on the following day.
• After your biopsy it is important to drink approximately 2-3 litres of fluid a day.

It generally takes up to a week for me to obtain the results of your biopsy, at which time I will arrange to review you in my private clinic rooms.  I will write to both you and your GP confirming your follow up arrangements after your biopsy.   If you have any questions concerning your care after your surgery please contact Dr Meyer's rooms on 07 38834431 or 0488 378016.