The use of risk assessment with MRI before biopsy and MRI-targeted biopsy was superior to standard transrectal ultrasonography-guided biopsy in men at clinical risk for prostate cancer who had not undergone biopsy previously. (Funded by the National Institute for Health Research and the European Association of Urology Research Foundation; PRECISION ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02380027 .).
Evidence Synthesis: The most frequent complication after PB is minor and self-limiting bleeding (hematuria and hematospermia), irrespective of the biopsy approach. Occurrence of rectal bleeding was comparable among traditional TRUS-guided and image-guided PB. Almost 25% of patients experience lower urinary tract symptoms, but only a few have urinary retention, with higher rates after transperineal approach. Temporary erectile dysfunction is not negligible, with a return to baseline after 1-6 months. The incidence of infective complications is being increasing, with higher rates among men with medical comorbidities and older age. Transperineal and in-bore MRI targeted biopsy may reduce the risk of severe infectious complications. Mortality after PB is uncommon, irrespective of biopsy technique.
Conclusions:Complications after PB are frequent but often self-limiting. The incidence of hospitalization due to severe infections is continuously increasing. Still, a careful appraisal of 3 patient's general health status, risk factors and likelihood of antimicrobial resistance should be done before scheduling a PB.
Patient Summary:In this paper we reviewed the variety and incidence of complications after prostate biopsy. Even if frequent, seldom represent a problem for the patient. The most troublesome complications are infections. In order to minimize this risk, a careful evaluation of patient's medical condition must be done before biopsy.4
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