Transrectal Biopsy of the Prostate Gland in Ibadan

Abstract

Background: Transrectal needle biopsy of the prostate gland is considered to be more accurate than the transperineal approach. Method: A review of the problems associated with transrectal biopsy of the prostate gland in our institution over a 5year period. Results: A total of 230 patients had transrectal biopsies of the prostate performed. The procedure was associated with complications in sixty patients.The infective complications seen were bacteraemia, manifesting as fever and rigors, and urinary tract infection. The traumatic complications manifested mainly as rectal bleeding and haematuria. Most of the complications were self- limiting and responded adequately to conservative management. Conclusion: Complications are common and could be fatal. Infective complications could be reduced, by administering antibiotics before and after the procedure. (Nig J Surg Res 2001; 3: 159 – 164) KEY WORDS: Prostate, Transrectal biopsy, Complications