Transperineal prostate biopsy
The safest, most accurate and most comfortable way to test for prostate cancer.
Understanding prostate biopsy
In a prostate biopsy, the doctor takes a few tiny samples from the prostate with a thin needle. A biopsy is the only way to know for sure whether you have prostate cancer. There are two ways to do it: through the rectum (transrectal) or through the skin (transperineal).
Through the rectum
The needle goes into the prostate through the wall of the rectum (back passage). The rectum has stool and bacteria in it, so this way has real risks.
- Higher risk of infection. About 2 to 4 in 100 people get an infection. Rarely, it can spread to the blood (sepsis), which is serious.
- Antibiotics needed. You take antibiotics for a few days around the time of the biopsy.
- More discomfort. Many people find it more uncomfortable during and after the biopsy.
- More problems afterwards. Some people have bleeding from the rectum that lasts a while.
Through the skin
The needle goes into the prostate through the skin between the scrotum and the anus. It does not go through the rectum.
- Lower risk of infection. The needle does not pass through the rectum, where bacteria live.
- Better at finding cancer. Samples can be taken from more of the prostate, so cancers that need treatment are more likely to be found.
- More comfortable. Many people find it easier to go through.
- Fewer problems afterwards. Serious problems, like heavy bleeding from the rectum, are less common.
Would you prefer a transperineal biopsy?
A referral for the biopsy itself must come from a urologist or cancer specialist (oncologist). If your doctor thinks you may have prostate cancer, any doctor can refer you to one of our urologists, or to the Prostate Diagnostic Assessment Clinic at Scarborough Health Network.