Appendix 1: TRUS
TRANSRECTAL ULTRASOUND SCAN & BIOPSY OF PROSTATE GLAND
You have been advised to undergo Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) and prostate biopsy as a diagnostic test for prostate cancer.
The procedure is done under sedation for your comfort and requires a day procedure admission to hospital.
The prostate gland is imaged with ultrasound (not Xrays) via a probe inserted through the anus into the rectum (back passage). Several needle core biopsies of the prostate are taken for histopathology analysis. There is a small (1-2%) risk of urinary or blood infection from the biopsy. Please note the precautions before the procedure.
Before the TRUS prostate biopsy:
You must start Noroxin or similar antibiotic as prescribed for 3 days starting 1 day before the biopsy.
You will receive a small rectal enema to clean out the lower back passage, soon after you are admitted to day procedure area.
You must cease any medications which thin the blood (anticoagulants) prior to the biopsy, otherwise you may experience excessive bleeding following the biopsy. Aspirin, Cardiprin, Disprin, Asasantin, Cartia, Solprin, Persatin, Ticlid, Plavix cease at least 10 days.
Warfarin, Coumadin, Marevan, Clexane, Fragmin, Heparin Trinoven (Red Clover) Ginko Biloba (Chinese herb) cease at least 3 days and consult your specialist.
After the TRUS prostate biopsy:
You will remain in the day procedure centre for 1-2 hours before being allowed to go home.
You will not be able to drive you car home after anaesthesia, please make alternative arrangements.
You will pass blood in the urine and semen for several days after the biopsy; do not be alarmed as this is usual.
You must complete the course of Noroxin or similar antibiotic.
You must report symptoms of fever, shivers, flu like feeling, pain not responding to rest and Paracetamol, or if unable to pass urine.
You will be notified of the biopsy results either by telephone or at review appointment.
Please contact our office if you have any questions regarding the TRUS prostate biopsy procedure.