Transperineal Prostate Biopsy
Our transperineal prostate biopsies using local anaesthetic offer an optimal biopsy to assess prostate cancer risk and guide appropriate treatment.
What is a transperineal prostate biopsy?
A transperineal prostate biopsy involves collecting small tissue samples from your prostate gland for laboratory analysis. This diagnostic procedure helps detect the presence of prostate cancer, assess abnormal prostate growth and guide appropriate treatment options.
A prostate biopsy is usually offered if there are suspicions of prostate cancer, such as raised PSA or an abnormal prostate MRI scan.
Performed by one of our consultants in an outpatient clinic using local anaesthetic, this procedure offers quick recovery times with no need for a hospital visit, and avoids the risks and costs associated with a general anaesthetic.
Compared with other approaches, a transperineal biopsy also offers several advantages including:
- Lower infection risk: The transperineal route avoids the rectum, resulting in a lower risk of serious infections compared to the transrectal biopsy method.
- More accurate sampling: MRI-fusion guidance allows for more precise and accurate biopsies.
- Reduced chance of difficulty passing urine post procedure: It might reduce the chance of difficulty passing urine (urine retention) following the biopsy.
If you’re interested in a private transperineal prostate biopsy at The Urology Partnership please contact us on 0118 920 7040 or complete our make an appointment form.
Transperineal Prostate Biopsy Procedure
Prior to a transperineal biopsy your consultant will arrange for you to have a prostate MRI scan. This is so that areas identified as suspicious within the scan can be targeted in the biopsy itself.
Before performing the biopsy an ultrasound probe is inserted into your back passage (rectum) so that images of the prostate can be fed onto a screen.
Then a local anaesthetic is applied to the perineum (the area between the rectum and the scrotum) to ensure the procedure is as comfortable for you as possible.
Once the area is numb, the biopsy will begin. During the procedure your consultant inserts a needle into the prostate via the perineum. Using the ultrasound images they guide the needle to the areas identified as suspicious to take samples. This is known as a targeted biopsy.
The whole procedure takes around 20 to 45 minutes.
After the samples are taken, a dressing or pad is applied to the insertion site. You’ll then relax at the clinic until you’ve passed urine normally. Being able to pass urine is important as the biopsy can cause the prostate to swell, making it difficult to urinate. Once you’ve passed urine, you’re safe to return home.
Getting your prostate biopsy results
Your consultant will receive your results within 7 to 14 days. At which point they’ll arrange a face-to-face appointment to discuss the results with you.
If cancer is found, you can be assured of our support going forward. We understand how worrying this can be for you and your consultant is here to help. They will take the time to explain your diagnosis, discuss your treatment options, listen to any concerns you have and answer any questions.
They’ll want your treatment to start as soon as possible, and will arrange for any further tests or scans needed.
Your case will also be discussed within our team to allow for input from other prostate cancer specialists. This helps us decide on the best personalised treatment plan possible.
Private prostate biopsy at The Urology Partnership
Our consultants are experts in the local anaesthetic transperineal prostate biopsy procedure, being involved in research and teaching the technique.
They are dedicated to providing the best in urological care, using the very latest diagnostics and procedures, delivered in a comfortable private clinic.
To find out more or to schedule a consultation for a prostate biopsy at The Urology Partnership, please get in touch on 0118 920 7040 or use our make an appointment form.
Transperineal Prostate Biopsy FAQs
Understandably men may feel a little nervous of this procedure because of the location of the biopsy site.
Your consultant will explain ahead of the procedure what will happen and listen to any concerns or questions you have.
On the day itself, your consultant will ensure you are feeling comfortable at every stage before proceeding to the next.
Before starting the procedure, a local anaesthetic is applied to your perineum (the area where the biopsy needle will enter) to reduce any discomfort you may feel.
The consultant will then check the area is numb and you’re feeling comfortable before proceeding.
During the procedure you may feel a slight stinging when the local anaesthetic is applied, and mild pressure or a brief sensation as the samples are taken. But in general the procedure is well tolerated by most.
After the biopsy most men feel only mild discomfort. Some men can find it more uncomfortable, which can usually be managed with an over-the-counter painkiller like paracetamol.
If pain or discomfort remains after a few days, then advice from a doctor should be sought.
During your recovery you may experience any of the following side effects:
- Mild discomfort and bruising in the biopsy area for a day or two.
- Blood in your urine for a few days, which will clear up with hydration.
- Blood in your semen, which can last for several weeks or even months.
- Temporary problems with erections caused by bruising from the biopsy.
You should contact your doctor or seek emergency care if you have:
- Heavy bleeding or large blood clots in your urine.
- A high temperature (above 37.5℃) or chills and shivering.
- An inability to pass urine.
- Increased pain or signs of infection.
Before returning home you’ll be given advice on how to help the biopsy site heal and reduce the risk of any complications.
In general:
- It’s important to drink lots of fluids (non-alcoholic) for a few days after the biopsy to help flush out your system and clear any blood in your urine.
- If any pain or discomfort is felt, take over-the-counter painkillers (like paracetamol).
- Use absorbent pads in your underwear should there be any bleeding from the biopsy site.
- Avoid soaking the area in the bath for 24 hours after the procedure.
- Avoid straining when going to the toilet.
- Avoid lifting, bending, stretching, any heavy jobs or sports for three days after the biopsy.
Rest after a transperineal prostate biopsy is recommended, but not necessarily strict bed rest. If you’ve had a local anaesthetic, you’ll typically be advised to rest at home for the remainder of the day of the procedure and avoid strenuous activity for a few days.
Because the biopsy can cause temporary swelling, soreness, and bruising in the perineum (the area between the scrotum and rectum), rest is important because it helps minimise these side effects and reduces the risk of complications such as bleeding.
Next Steps
Our Transperineal Prostate Biopsy Specialists
Get fast access to leading specialists for the swift diagnosis and treatment of urological conditions in a private clinic environment.
If you would like more information or wish to arrange a consultation with one of our specialist consultant urological surgeons then please either Call 0118 920 7040 or complete the form below.
Insured patients
Contact your GP and ask for a referral to the Urology Partnership.
All consultations, investigations and treatments are covered by major insurance companies (depending on policy).
Funding your own treatment
Self-funding initial consultation fee is £250. Follow up fees are £175.
Consultation charges are exclusive of any tests and other investigations that the consultant may wish to carry out.