A prostate biopsy is recommended as further investigation of an elevated PSA or an abnormality of the prostate on rectal examination. It is performed under ultrasound guidance.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images. It is completely safe and there is no radiation. The sound waves are transmitted by the ultrasound probe (transducer). Please read this leaflet carefully as it provides important advice on preparation for the procedure.

We will provide you with instructions regarding all aspects of preparing for your operation.

• Pre-operative blood and urine tests.
• Details of admission to hospital.
• Information regarding fasting and medications.

Antibiotics: You will be given an antibiotic called Meropenum intravenously at the
beginning of your procedure. Please make staff aware of any medication allergies.

Antibiotics: You should take the 2 ciprofloxacin tablets we have given you 2 hours prior to admission. Please take these only with a sip of water as you will be fasting for the procedure.

Enema: Your Urologist may give you specific instructions on use, otherwise proceed with the following instructions. Use the enema 2 hours prior to your admission. Remove the tip from the enema. Insert into the rectum and squeeze contents of enema. The enema should work within half an hour.

It is usual to experience some bleeding from the urethra and from the rectum after the biopsy. This can last from 2 days to 2 weeks, but it usually settles within one week. You may also see blood in the semen which may last for several weeks, depending on how often you ejaculate. This is not dangerous. About 25% of men have some discomfort passing their urine afterwards but this usually settles quickly.

There is a small risk (1%) of developing an infection in the blood stream – septicaemia. This can cause you to feel unwell with fevers and chills. If this happens you should contact us. You may need admission to hospital for treatment with antibiotics through a drip. In the unlikely event this happens overnight you will need to go to a hospital emergency department.

You should expect to see some bleeding as mentioned above. If the urine is red then you should drink extra fluid to help keep the urine light in colour. If the bleeding seems excessive, either more than half a cup from the rectum or you are passing clots in the urine, then you should contact us. You may need admission to hospital.

If you have burning when you pass your urine that does not seem to be getting better after 2 days then you could have a urine infection. Please contact us to organise a urine test and assessment.

We suggest you rest quietly for the remainder of the day. Please avoid heavy lifting or straining until the blood clears from the urine and bowels. An appointment will be made to come back for the results.

You should not drive for at least 24 hours after having sedation/ general anaesthetic (or as instructed by your Urologist).

Patients who are travelling outside the metropolitan area are required to check when they are able to travel, and will be required to stay in the metropolitan area for 24 hours (or as instructed by your Urologist).

In the event of an emergency, call our office within business hours and speak to our Practice Nurse.  If out of hours, please call our office to contact our On-Call Urologist, or present to your nearest Emergency Department.

Royal Darwin Hospital

Rocklands Drive, Tiwi NT 0810 8922 8888 24 Hours

**For patient’s outside the Metropolitan area, please present to your nearest hospital emergency department.

A follow up appointment will be planned for you a few days following your procedure.

If you have any concerns after your procedure, please contact our office and speak to one of the practice nurses.

The content provided within this document is intended as a guide only and does not apply to all patients. Additional information, including patient specific potential risks, must be obtained during consultation with your Urologist.