A prostate biopsy is a cancer screening in which small samples of tissue from the prostate gland are removed and analyzed. Doctors order it when men show signs of prostate cancer, such as irregular-looking tissue or worrisome results on blood tests. Learning you might have cancer is scary, but understanding how it’s diagnosed can eliminate some fear. The doctors at Main Street Radiology in Queens, NY, explain what you can expect during the procedure.

Transperineal & Transrectal Prostate Biopsies

For a transperineal prostate biopsy, the area between the anus and scrotum will be numbed and a doctor will make a small incision. Using a CT scan or MRI exam as a visual guide, the doctor will insert a needle to remove small pieces of tissue from the prostate for analysis. This technique is a less common procedure; doctors typically perform a transrectal biopsy.

For a transrectal prostate biopsy, a numbing agent will be injected so the patient feels as little discomfort as possible. Then, with the patient’s knees pulled up toward their chest, a doctor will insert a small ultrasound probe into the rectum. The ultrasound lets the doctor see inside the body on a monitor as they direct the needle, giving them a high level of accuracy. Once it’s in place, the needle’s spring-loaded tip will retrieve samples.

Both biopsy techniques cause some physical discomfort. However, thanks to the accuracy afforded by MRI and ultrasound imaging and the use of anesthetics, the displeasure is brief and minimal.

What Happens After a Prostate Biopsy

Patients might be prescribed a short round of antibiotics after a prostate biopsy. Your doctor will instruct you to avoid physical activity for a few days. During this period, you might feel soreness and notice mildly bloody stools or semen. However, heavy bleeding, flu-like symptoms, or straining to urinate are complications, and you should contact your doctor immediately for treatment.

For thorough cancer screenings from a compassionate, experienced team, turn to Main Street Radiology in Queens — they have served New York residents for over five decades. To learn more about their procedures, including MRI exams, mammograms, and other screenings, visit them online. Call (718) 428-1500 to schedule an appointment with their board-certified doctors and technicians. Follow them on Twitter for health tips and updates from their clinics.