There are a number of potential complications from the TRUS biopsy procedure. The vast majority of patients have no problems at all but it is important that you understand what may potentially happen.

• Urethral bleeding:

  Most men do pass a small amount of blood in their urine or leak blood from the penis after the procedure. This is an expected occurrence after the procedure. This should settle within 24-48 hours.

• Rectal Bleeding:

  Most men pass a small amount of blood in the first one or two bowel motions after the procedure. This is an expected occurrence after the procedure. This should settle within 24-48 hours.

• Haematospermia:

  Blood in the semen or dark staining of the semen can persist for up to 3 months after the procedure. This is an expected occurrence and nothing to be concerned about. Sexual activity can continue as normal.

• Sepsis:

  This is a severe form of infection and is otherwise known as blood poisoning. This occurs in 1 in 100-200 patients. The symptoms consist of fevers, chills, shaking, lethargy, warm skin, shortness of breath, rapid heart beat, drowsiness and a general feeling of being unwell.

• Urinary retention:

  Occasionally patients may have difficulty passing urine after the procedure. This usually happens in older men or men with extremely large prostates. The symptoms consist of difficulty urinating, abdominal pain, poor flow or frequent urination.

• Urinary tract infection:

  Infection of the urine, prostate or testicles can occur after the procedure and can cause symptoms of difficulty urinating, burning on urination, frequent urination, swollen testicles or fevers.

• Pain:

  You may experience mild pelvic discomfort within 24 hours of the biopsy. Panadol, Panadeine, or Digesic are usually all that is required. If you are requiring stronger pain relief then you need to contact Dr Swindle.

• Erectile difficulties:

  Rarely patients have described difficulties in gaining erections after a prostate biopsy. This is very rare and usually occurs in men who have a positive diagnosis and is often related to anxiety.

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