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Prostate transrectal biopsy

Posted by rockin2047 @rockin2047, Jan 26, 2023

I would be very happy if you can answer a urology question for me. A recent MRI of my prostate indicated one small lesion which had a high probability of cancer and a second one thought to be benign. The PSA number is 3. The urology doctor is scheduled to take biopsies on Feb 7, 2023. My understanding of this procedure is that a biopsy needle is inserted and guided into the rectum and then passes thru the rectum wall aided by the MRI image and Ultrasound Fusion to target the cancerous spot. Once the biopsy samples are collected from the suspected sites what then prevents the cancer cells that are left behind in the prostate to escape and then migrate to anywhere else they want? As the needle is withdrawn after each sample is taken is the needle hole then cauterized? My concern is whether or not there is a risk of the cancer spreading as a result of this procedure.

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captb | @captb | Mar 3 12:11pm
In reply to @conaway2 "Although I can’t speak to any increased risk of cancer spreading as a result of the..." + (show)
@conaway2

Although I can’t speak to any increased risk of cancer spreading as a result of the transrectal biopsy, I do know that the knowledge gained from the biopsy is invaluable in making a decision about treatment.

My biopsy was performed this past August, yielded a Gleason score of 4+3, with aggressive cancer cells found in 3 of 12 samples. This, along with an MRI, which showed the cancer was contained, enabled my decision to proceed with RALP.

I think that knowledge is power in dealing with prostate cancer; with multiple treatment options available, I want as much information as possible to make an informed decision on treatment.

My prostatectomy was performed almost 3 weeks ago. Recovery is going very well so far. My follow-up PSA test in 2+ weeks will be revealing. One step at a time…..

Good luck whatever you decide to do.

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Could you explain what the invaluable knowledge is gained from a biopsy? I understand it may be possible to determine whether or not you have cancer and if it is an aggressive form or not. So if a 71 yr old man with a PSA of 287 and has advanced stage 4 metastatic cancer in the bones and lymph why the necessity for a biopsy?

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captb | @captb | Mar 3 12:34pm

What does common sense tell you? Of course the medical establishment will say there's no evidence for such a claim but have they really done the research? It's easy to say there's no evidence when they never look for it. I think most people give too much credit to the medical and scientific know it alls especially when big money is part of the equation.

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