a new problem
Posted , 14 users are following.
i had sex as normal with my partner when i found i ejaculated blood and
it was quite painful this has happened 2 times now i attended hospital and they want to go down the prostrate cancer path ,i had a MRI scan which is not a problem but i find the prostrate biopsy quite intrusive and do not want to go ahead with it ! there are some nasty reports about the technique . Of course i am afraid to have sex now but at 67 i am not worried what does worry me is the biopsy ? any views . thanks
0 likes, 16 replies
husni31313 john52204
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Rick802 john52204
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There is no way to deny that the prostrate biopsy is an intrusive procedure, but how intrusive it is to us individually comes down to mindset and perception. While the procedure is uncomfortable, it does not last for a lengthy period of time, and while there may be discomfort for a couple of days following the biopsy, I found it to be quite manageable. The other (manageable) issue is that you'll experience more bleeding following the procedure.
Having sample tissue evaluated, and if cancer is found, the Gleason score will allow you to assess how aggressive it is. No argument that this is a slippery slope, but I feel it is better to have the biopsy so that you can make some informed decisions. In my (humble) opinion, the two biggest mistakes men make are (1) ignoring the risks and avoiding a biopsy, and (2) not taking enough time to evaluate their options for treatments following a diagnosis.
I have never regretted following through with a biopsy (I've had two), because the knowledge I obtained from the results were well worth the discomfort experienced that allowed me to gain that knowledge and plan my treatments based on risk. I always want to ensure that the medical profession is not over treating me. I hope this helps, best of luck to you!
Pepasan john52204
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I've had two biopsies without problem and have been glad cancer has been detected in its early stages
rick75354 john52204
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gale10132 john52204
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Jollyjack john52204
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Hi john52204,I had the biopsy in November 2016i like yourself was a bit worried,but my worries were unfonded,it was mild discomfort that's all,I had 12 biopsy taken then 4 fusion targeted biopsy taken, the standered biopsy found no cancer but the targeted ones found cancer I have since had my prostate removed I am now 4 weeks post op now.
steve82587 john52204
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charles61038 john52204
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Yes you should go ahead and get the biopsy. Then you what course of action you need to take. The core samples along with the Gleason score will indicate whether or not cancer is present. If it is, it will also tell what type - aggressive or non aggressive. I had the procedure done in my urologist's office. I had to do a Fleet's enema the morning of the procedure - which is probably a good idea to clean you out and lessen the chance of infection. I was also given a regimen of antibiotics a few days before and continued a few days after. It is not a pleasant experience, but it is tolerable. I would ask if your doctor would inject lanocane or some kind of numbing agent. I've heard some men have that and do not feel anything at all. My doctor didn't do that, so I felt it. It is better to know what you are dealing with - and get it treated so you can o on with your life. Good luck to you.
geoff90305 john52204
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Agree about the biopsy. What did the radiologists report say about the MRI images? did you get a mpMRI? The radiologists would also give you a PIRAD score, 1-5. 1= you are probably fine and 5= you have issues. Unless there is a lesion to be seen or reported on, I would be getting the urologist to scope my urethra. Biopsy of somewhere in the prostate bit like blind fishing
Geoff
john52204 geoff90305
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geoff90305 john52204
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I guess, as the MRI was done in a hospital at the direction of a doctor as part of other treatment to diagnose your problem, the results they provide are not like in a private practise, but more of, umm, whats that? It sounds like they have seen some thing they want to investigate further and consider the biopsy the best way forward. In private practise, and maybe the hospital, you can request a Perineal biopsy, which does not go through the rectum wall, and you avoid possible infections.
barney34567 john52204
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As with any medical issue, you should start investigating by non invasive means and only if they fail to address your ailment, THEN undergo invasive procedures.
After all, you may have a prostatic problem, but then again you may have another problem such as infection or bladder issues.
That said:
1. Do a urine analysis to check for infection.
2. Check for sexually transmitted diseases.
3. Perform a MRI, ideally 3T and have it reported on by a radiologist that specialises in prostate imaging. You don't want a radiologist who also reports on prostates. You want one that focusses on the prostate.
If you decide on a biopsy you should choose to have it performed by the urologist you would be happy with to operate on you at a later date. This is because most urologists only trust their own biopsies.
If you end up having a biopsy, then go for a transperennial ultrasound guided biopsy.
This approaches the prostate from the area near the scrotum as opposed to the very common transrectal approach. The former is proven to have a lower risk of sepsis. And if it is ultrasound guided, then the MRI and u/s will guide the urologist to the areas the MRI indicated is of concern. The alternative is an unguided stab in the dark biopsy, which is of little value.
Good luck
barney34567
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PureAsh john52204
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I had a biopsy done a few weeks back. Yes - it is undignified. But what the hell - if it saves your life isn't it worth doing?
I had a young doctor use the tool with a olde nuse pesent - they wee caring and kept me informed how many clicks (samples) were remaining regularly. It was uncomfortable have the tool pushed into the rear for sure - and the rest of the day you feel the urge to defaecate which is uncomfortable. No real pain and next day, all as per normal.
PureAsh
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Btw ...the 'r' on my keyboard isn't great !!