A prostate gland biopsy is a test to remove small samples of prostate tissue to be examined under a microscope. A biopsy may be done when a blood test shows a high level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or after a digital rectal examination finds an abnormal prostate or a lump.

The Prostate Biopsy will be performed in the office using the prostate ultrasound machine to help localize the area in your prostate to be biopsied.
The sample will then be examined under a microscope.

How to Prepare for your Biopsy and What to Expect

THE NIGHT BEFORE: Prior to your appointment, you will be given an antibiotic.
Take the pill the night before the exam at bedtime.

DAY OF BIOPSY: You must use a Fleet enema two hours before the exam.
A very light breakfast or lunch is recommended.

You should not use aspirin or aspirin-containing products.
Please consult THIS LIST of Medications to Avoid Prior to Biopsy.
If you routinely take any prescribed medications that are not on the attached list, you may continue them.

The biopsy is performed with anesthesia under direct ultrasonic vision; Xylocaine® will be injected to perform a “block” of the prostate which numbs the area.
The procedure takes approximately 15 minutes.
There is usually only mild discomfort experienced by the patient.

AFTER THE BIOPSY:After the biopsy, you should go directly home to rest and avoid strenuous activity. You should not return to work for two days.

You should expect that there may be blood in your urine.
This usually stops in 1 – 2 days.
There may also be blood in the ejaculate when sexual activity is resumed.
It is also common to see blood in the stool or blood on the toilet paper after a bowel movement. This usually stops in 1 – 2 days, but may last longer.

The most important problem associated with the prostate biopsy is infection.
This presents with fever and chills.
You will be given antibiotics to take for several days after the biopsy.
If you develop a fever or chills, you must immediately call the office at 973-586-3056.

Regular activities, including work, may be resumed in two days if you are feeling well with no fever and do not have any blood in the urine or stool.
If there is a need for pain medication, use Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol. Avoid aspirin.

If you experience any difficulties after the biopsy, or if you have any questions, please call the office immediately.

Additionally, we will send the specimen from your Prostate Biopsy out to a laboratory.
Our office uses CBL Pathology.

CBL Pathology bills Medicare and commercial insurance companies for services they perform on patients' behalf, at the request of their physicians.
CBL Pathology’s invoice is separate from the physician's bill.

For more information please consult CBL Pathology’s website at www.cblpath.com