SAFETY AND MORBIDITY OF FIRST AND REPEAT TRANSRECTAL ULTRASOUND GUIDED PROSTATE NEEDLE BIOPSIES: RESULTS OF A PROSPECTIVE EUROPEAN PROSTATE CANCER DETECTION STUDY

Abstract

Transrectal ultrasound guided biopsy is generally well tolerated with minor morbidity only rarely requiring treatment. Re-biopsy can be performed 6 weeks later with no significant difference in pain or morbidity. Patients younger than 60 years should be counseled in regard to a higher level of discomfort, and local and topical anesthesia if desired.