-UNDERSTANDING YOUR PROSTATE BIOPSY: WHAT TO EXPECT
Prostate Biopsy Procedures in California
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Prithipal S. Sethi, MD of Golden State Urology. Dr. Sethi is a board-certified urologist with more than 25 years of experience. A recognized leader in prostate health, he specializes in prostate diagnostics and advanced treatments for prostate conditions.
If you’ve been advised to undergo a prostate biopsy, it’s normal to have questions and concerns.
We understand that the process can feel overwhelming, but early detection is key to effective treatment. Our team is here to provide you with the information and support you need to feel confident, prepared, and at ease.
What to Know Before a Prostate Biopsy
WHAT IS A PROSTATE BIOPSY?
While men who have had the coloplast penile prosthesissurgery can see the small surgical scar where the bottom of the penis meets the scrotal sac, or in the lower abdomen just above the penis, other people probably will be unable to tell that a man has an inflatable penile prosthesis.
WHY ARE PROSTATE BIOPSIES PERFORMED?
Prostate biopsies are performed when someone has symptoms that may indicate prostate cancer, such as elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels or an abnormal digital rectal exam (DRE).
HOW IS A PROSTATE BIOPSY DONE?
There are a few types of prostate biopsy, each using a different approach to access the prostate and gather tissue samples. Your doctor may recommend a specific type based on your health, prostate anatomy, or previous test results.
TRANSRECTAL PROSTATE BIOPSY
This approach involves inserting an ultrasound-guided needle through the rectum to retrieve tissue samples. The procedure typically takes 20–30 minutes and is minimally invasive.
What to Expect
- You may be instructed to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners.
- You will be prescribed antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection and possibly an enema to clear the rectum for better access.
- You’ll be positioned comfortably, often on your back with legs elevated.
- A local anesthetic will be administered to numb the perineum. Mild sedation may also be offered for comfort.
- An ultrasound wand will be inserted into the rectum for guidance.
- Your doctor will insert a fine biopsy needle through the perineum to collect small tissue samples (typically 10-12).
After the Procedure:
- You’ll be monitored briefly and given aftercare instructions.
MRI FUSION PROSTATE BIOPSY
An MRI fusion biopsy combines pre-recorded MRI images with real-time ultrasound to guide the needle. This method is more accurate than ultrasound-guided biopsies, allowing better targeting of suspicious areas.
What to Expect
Pre-Appointment:
- You will be referred to a radiology center for an MRI scan to identify any suspicious areas within the prostate.
- Antibiotics will be prescribed, and you will be asked to halt certain medications, such as blood thinners.
During the Procedure:
- You’ll be comfortably positioned on the exam table. A sedative may be administered for relaxation.
- A lubricated ultrasound wand will be inserted into the rectum. You may feel some pressure, which could be uncomfortable.
- A local anesthetic will numb the biopsy area before taking tissue samples.
- Our team will use software to fuse MRI images with ultrasound images to guide the biopsy needle to the exact spots identified in the MRI scan.
After the Procedure:
- You’ll receive aftercare instructions and have the opportunity to ask any questions.
MRI-GUIDED PROSTATE BIOPSY
An MRI prostate biopsy is guided by continuous MRI imaging, typically used to target areas that may be difficult to access with an ultrasound biopsy.
What to Expect
Pre-Appointment:
- You will be referred to a radiology center for an MRI scan to identify any suspicious areas within the prostate.
- Antibiotics will be prescribed, and you will be asked to halt certain medications, such as blood thinners.
During the Procedure:
- You’ll be comfortably positioned on the exam table. A sedative may be administered for relaxation.
- A lubricated ultrasound wand will be inserted into the rectum. You may feel some pressure, which could be uncomfortable.
- A local anesthetic will numb the biopsy area before taking tissue samples.
- Our team will use software to fuse MRI images with ultrasound images to guide the biopsy needle to the exact spots identified in the MRI scan.
After the Procedure:
- You’ll receive aftercare instructions and have the opportunity to ask any questions.
QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR PROSTATE BIOPSY?
We understand that medical procedures like this can be intimidating. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can call our office at 916-245-8888 to speak with a member of staff.
WHAT IF MY PROSTATE BIOPSY IS ABNORMAL?
If your biopsy results indicate abnormal findings, such as cancerous or precancerous cells, your doctor will discuss the details with you and refer you for further testing.
This may include imaging scans or additional biopsies to clearly show the extent and aggressiveness of any abnormal cells.
After a diagnosis is established, your doctor will work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan.
PROSTATE CANCER: WHAT TO KNOW
Statistics from the American Cancer Society indicate that 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime, with some populations at a higher risk:
- Men over 50
- Men with a family history of prostate cancer
- Men of African or Caribbean descent
Though any cancer diagnosis is serious, it may be reassuring to know that the majority of men diagnosed with prostate cancer do not die from it. Prostate cancer is highly treatable—especially when detected early.
Treatment options vary based on the diagnosis. Options include active surveillance for slow-growing cases and advanced therapies like surgery, radiation, and hormone treatments. Many men with prostate cancer lead full, healthy lives. Your doctor will work with you to develop the best treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.
WHY GOLDEN STATE UROLOGY?
Golden State Urology is a leading urology practice serving men and women in the Sacramento area.
We are proud to offer timely, compassionate, personalized care to our patients, and have a long history of success in minimally invasive urologic procedures and treatments.
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Why Choose Us
Golden State Urology in Sacramento, California, is a top choice for urologic care, offering expert treatments with a patient-centered approach. Their team of highly skilled professionals provides advanced solutions for a wide range of conditions.
With state-of-the-art technology, personalized treatment plans, and a commitment to compassionate care, Golden State Urology ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of medical attention. Whether you’re seeking innovative procedures or routine care, our experienced specialists are dedicated to improving your health and quality of life.
Convenient Business Hours
Our Sacramento urology medical center is open 6 days a week and provides evening appointments to accommodate varied work schedules. Please call to schedule a consult.
Personalized Treatments
At Golden State Urology in Sacramento, we prioritize personalized treatment plans for each patient, addressing various conditions such as sexual health issues (e.g., vasectomies) and urinary tract conditions (e.g., infections, incontinence, cancers) to achieve optimal results.
Innovative Solutions
At our urology center, we prioritize patient satisfaction and utilize advanced technology to achieve optimal outcomes for various reproductive and urinary issues, including vasectomies, urinary incontinence, infections, and cancers of the testis, kidney, prostate, and bladder.
Certified Experts
Our Sacramento, CA urologists have 30 years of experience in sexual health, urinary medicine, urologic surgery, and cancers, continually adopting advanced solutions and technology for both men and women.
Easy Payment Methods
Golden State Urology in Sacramento offers various payment options to make treatment affordable and convenient. Contact any of our nearby offices for more details.
Personal Approach
We value our patients and credit our success to them. As your Sacramento urologist office, we focus on monitoring patient satisfaction and finding solutions for optimal outcomes, prioritizing your happiness as a measure of our success.
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FAQ’s
We’re sure you have questions, and we’re here to answer them! Below are some frequently asked questions that might help, but we’re also available via phone or email for anything that might be on your mind!
We’re sure you have questions, and we’re here to answer them! Below are some frequently asked questions that might help, but we’re also available via phone or email for anything that might be on your mind!
A urologist is a physician whose specialty is maintaining and studying the male reproductive system and the urinary tracts of both men and women. These specialists are certified in diagnosing and treating many conditions in the genitourinary tract, which encompasses the kidneys, urinary bladder, ureter, urethra, and adrenal glands. A urologist also studies and deals with the male reproductive organs — penis, prostate, testicles, epididymis, seminal vesicles, vas deferens, etc. A urologist can also specialize in male fertility as well, performing vasectomies and vasectomy reversals.
Our urologists in Sacramento treat disorders such as urinary tract infections (UTI), kidney stones, hematuria (blood in the urine), kidney cancer, stress incontinence, benign prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and cystitis. You will also find a doctor who is skilled in gynecology to address women’s urinary health and in pediatrics to treat urinary issues in children. Golden State Urology employs some of the best urologists in Sacramento with in-depth expertise and extensive experience in treating these conditions.
A urologist can help both men and women struggling with urinary or sexual health issues. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, schedule your consultation with one of our urologists in Sacramento.
Symptoms for Men
- Urinary Issues: Frequent urination, especially at night, urgency, weak or interrupted urine flow, dribbling, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
- Erectile Dysfunction: Problems with achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Testicular Problems: Pain, swelling, or lumps in the testicles.
- Certain Types of Pain: Pain in the lower back, groin, and pelvis or pain while urinating.
- Blood in the Urine: Visible blood or a pinkish tint to the urine.
- Incontinence: Loss of bladder control or leaking urine.
Symptoms for Women
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent UTIs or recurring infections that require antibiotics.
- Incontinence: Loss of bladder control or involuntary leaking of urine.
- Painful Urination: A burning sensation or pain when urinating.
- Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate often, especially at night.
- Blood in the Urine: Visible blood or a pinkish tint to the urine.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Sensation of pressure or a bulge in the pelvic region.
- Pain in the Lower Abdomen or Pelvis: Persistent or sharp pain in these areas.
A urologist can perform in-depth tests to provide an accurate diagnosis. Our team of urology physicians will also prescribe treatment to resolve the underlying cause and help manage your symptoms.
If you have no urological symptoms, a general check-up every few years is usually sufficient. However, men over 40, those with a history of urological issues, or those at risk for prostate cancer should schedule annual visits.
Participating in a clinical trial can give you access to cutting-edge treatments before they are widely available. However, it’s important to discuss the potential risks, benefits, and eligibility criteria with your doctor to determine if a trial aligns with your health needs.
Screening recommendations vary based on age, sex, and risk factors. Men over 50 (or 40 with risk factors) should consider prostate cancer screening. Women may need regular pelvic exams and UTI screenings. Kidney function, bladder health, and STIs are other considerations. Always consult your doctor for personalized recommendations.
Yes, a family history of conditions like prostate cancer, kidney disease, bladder cancer, or infertility can increase your risk. If certain urological issues run in your family, early screening and lifestyle changes may help with prevention and early detection.
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