Primary Article

Complications of Transrectal Biopsy Examination of the Prostate

Authors: LEONIDAS W. DOWLEN JR. MD, NORMAN L. BLOCK MD, VICTOR A. POLITANO MD

Abstract

Abstract:A retrospective analysis of 158 transrectal prostatic needle biopsy examinations done in 140 patients from Jan 1, 1968, through April 30, 1972, showed 62 complications in 51 biopsies. Fourteen major complications occurred in 11 patients. Fever developed in 41 (26%) of the patients. A review of the literature dealing with complications of prostatic biopsy is given. The following recommendations are made: (1) the use of the perineal approach whenever possible; (2) the use of prophylactic antimicrobials; (3) hospitalization for prostatic biopsy examination.

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References