TRUS - Transrectal Ultrasound & Biopsy

What is it?

 

A TRUS and biopsy is an examination done via an ultrasound probe passed via the rectum (back passage), which allows a needle to take a sample of prostate tissue.

 

 

Why is it done?

TRUS and biopsy is done to establish the presence of cancer cells in the prostate.

 

How is it done?

This procedure is uncomfortable but generally not painful and an anaesthetic is usually provided by an anaesthetist.  Once on the examination table an injection of antibiotics is given into your vein to help prevent infection.  You will be lying on your side for the procedure.  An ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum, a measurement of the prostate is made and the biopsies are taken.  You will be sedated during this time. 

 

Before the procedure.

You will be required to fast for 4-6 hrs (nothing to eat or drink) prior to the procedure, you may however take your medications with a sip of water.  You should inform your Doctor if you are taking any Aspirin, Warfarin & Plavix or any other blood thinning medication.

 

Sedation

This is an optional service.  If you wish to have sedation it will be provided by a Specialist Anaesthetist.  For your safety you must have no food or drink from 7.00am on the day of your procedure.  However you may take all medications as normal on the day with a sip of water.  Please bring a list of your medications with you on the day.  If you have sedation you must be accompanied home and must not for at least 24 hours afterwards, drive, make important decisions, use dangerous equipment or sign legal documents.

 

After the Transrectal Ultrasound.

You will be able to go home one-two hour after the procedure.  You may pass some blood in the urine, semen and from the back passage but this usually settles within 48 hours.  Drink plenty of fluids for the first 24hrs until the bleeding has subsided.

 

Infection is the main concern for this procedure despite antibiotic cover.  If you develop a high fever, shivers, shakes feeling unwell you must not hesitate to contact the Emergency Department at John Flynn Hospital.  This is very important.

 

Do not do any heavy lifting for 2-3 days and keep your bowel motions soft to avoid straining by drinking plenty of water and eating a high fibre diet.  You will not be able to drive your car after the procedure until the next day due to the sedation drugs you have been given intravenously prior to the procedure. 

 

YOU NEED TO START YOUR ANTIBIOTICS ON THE NIGHT PRIOR TO THE BIOPSY AND THEN THEY CONTINUE FOR ONE WEEK.

YOU NEED TO USE AN ENEMA ON THE MORNING OF THE BIOPSY.

 

YOU SHOULD PRESENT TO RECEPTION AT JOHN FLYNN HOSPTIAL AT 1.00pm (QLD TIME).

YOU WILL NEED TO FAST FROM 7.00AM (Nothing to eat or drink).

Findings

 

The biopsy results usually take up to five days to be provided by the pathology department.  You will receive an appointment to return to see your doctor for the results and discuss if any further treatment is required.