Preparing for the procedure
- Review MRI and clinical findings
- Discuss blood-thinning medication
- Follow antibiotic, bowel or fasting instructions provided
- Understand the biopsy route and anaesthetic plan
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Prostate diagnosis
Prostate biopsy
Targeted tissue sampling used when clinical findings, PSA or imaging indicate that prostate cancer needs to be assessed.
Why it may be recommended
A biopsy provides tissue for a pathologist to determine whether cancer is present and, if so, its grade. Results are interpreted together with PSA, examination and imaging.
What generally happens
Small tissue samples are taken from selected prostate areas using imaging guidance. The exact approach and anaesthetic depend on the clinical plan.
Recovery & follow-up
- Some blood in urine or semen can occur for a period
- Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed
- Seek urgent care for fever, chills, inability to urinate or heavy bleeding
- Attend the results consultation
Questions worth asking
Be informed before you decide.
- 01Why do I need a biopsy?
- 02How will targeting be performed?
- 03What are the infection and bleeding risks?
- 04When and how will results be explained?