TRANSRECTAL ULTRASOUND OF THE PROSTATE AND BIOPSIES

Description:

Ultrasound uses harmless sound waves to give us pictures of the prostate and allows us to accurately guide a biopsy needle to areas of concern. Indications include suspicion of cancer either by suspicious finger exam of the prostate or be elevation of a prostate screening blood test (PSA). The procedure is done in the office or in an outpatient setting. Initially, a probe is placed in the rectum. With slight movement of the probe, many different views are obtained. When areas of suspicion are seen, biopsies will be taken. A spring loaded fine needle is placed through the probe and pointed directly into the suspicious area. Twelve biopsies are usually taken. These biopsies may feel like rubber band hitting the skin, but usually are not painful. You may notice blood in the urine and stool for a few days and in the semen for up to one month. We will make you an appointment to come back in three weeks to go over the results.

You will receive a bill from us for your pathology charges and the ultrasound and biopsies.


Before the Procedure:

• PLEASE DO NOT TAKE ANY BLOOD THINNING MEDICATIONS FOR 7 DAYS PRIOR TO YOUR SEDATIVE PROCEDURE (aspirin, Coumadin, Plavix, percentine, Lovenox or Vitamin E). 
• Please do Fleet's Enema the night before around 6:00 PM
• Procedure is performed in our office under I.V. Sedation
• We will explain the procedure to your and offer you the opportunity to ask any questions that you might have regarding procedure.
• You will be asked to sign a consent form that gives your permission to do the test.  Read the form carefully and ask any questions if something is not clear.
• You may be asked to remove some clothing and you will be given a gown to wear.
• You will be positioned on the examination table.
• You will be seen and evaluated by our anesthesia staff.
• An intravenous (I.V.) line will be inserted in your arm or hand.
• You will receive an I.V. Sedative or anesthetic, depending upon your specific situation.  Your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing and blood oxygen level will be continuously monitored during the procedure.
• After the procedure, once your blood pressure, pulse, breathing and oxygen saturation are stable and you are alert, I.V. line will be removed and you will be sent home in custody of your family members or friends.

After the Procedure:

Blood may be noticed in the stool and urine for few days and in the semen for up to one month. Infections of the prostate and in the urine can occur even with antibiotics. Please call our office if you develop fever, chills, severe pain or have continuous bleeding.