Fusion prostate biopsy is a method in which both MRI and ultrasound devices are used in prostate biopsy. In this technique, prior to the biopsy, a multiparametric prostate MRI is performed. If any suspicious areas for cancer are detected in the MRI images, they are identified. The biopsy is then performed using ultrasound and fusion devices to target these suspicious areas in the prostate.
What are the differences between fusion prostate biopsy and classical prostate biopsy ?
Unlike classical prostate biopsy, fusion biopsy involves performing an MRI before the procedure, and these MRI images are used during the biopsy.
In the pre-biopsy MRI, areas with aggressive prostate cancer are identified, and by biopsy performing these areas, a quick and accurate diagnosis is achieved.
There is no difference in patient preparation or post-procedure follow-up between classical and fusion prostate biopsies.
How should I prepare for fusion prostate biopsy ?
You should inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking. Adjustments to medication doses or discontinuation (especially of blood thinners) may be required. To reduce the risk of infection, you will be prescribed antibiotics to take before and after the biopsy.
Prostate biopsy is generally performed in an outpatient setting. Blood samples may be taken for necessary blood tests before the procedure. You will be asked not to eat or drink for 6-8 hours before the biopsy. It is recommended that you have someone accompany you to take you home after the procedure. If sedation is used, having a companion is mandatory.
How is fusion prostate biopsy performed ?
The procedure begins with the injection of a local anesthetic to numb the biopsy area. Due to the special anesthesia technique used in our clinic (periprostatic nerve block), patients experience minimal pain during the procedure.
The biopsy is performed using an ultrasound device. A small ultrasound probe, about the width of a finger, is used in this procedure. The probe is inserted into the rectum to visualize the prostate on the ultrasound screen. Through a specialized channel in the ultrasound probe, a hollow, thin needle is advanced into the prostate. The needle extracts small cylindrical tissue samples from the prostate. This process is usually repeated 12 times. Afterward, the needle and ultrasound probe are removed, and the procedure is completed.
What can happen after the procedure? What is the follow-up plan ?
The most concerning complication after the procedure is infection. To prevent this, you will be asked to complete the antibiotic course you began before the procedure and to drink plenty of water for a while.
In the days following the procedure, you may experience mild pain at the biopsy site and occasionally notice small amounts of blood in your stool or urine. If you have hemorrhoids, you may experience light-colored bleeding from hemorrhoidal sacs. Many men notice blood in their semen or may have rust-colored semen that can last for a few weeks after the biopsy. These are expected post-procedure symptoms. You will be provided with instructions on how to manage these symptoms after the procedure.