VCU Massey Center offers new prostate cancer biopsy procedure

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A new procedure for prostate cancer biopsies is now being offered at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The center's downtown Adult Outpatient Pavilion is now performing transperineal biopsies, which are "considered significantly safer than transrectal biopsies," according to a release.

A transrectal biopsy is a procedure that places a needle through an individual's rectum, creating a larger risk of infection and sepsis, the release said.

A transperineal biopsy is an outpatient procedure that usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes, and is completed in an exam room with local anesthesia alongside self-administered nitrous oxide.

The release also said that there has been evidence to indicate the procedure can be performed with a low-intensity antibiotic, or no antibiotic at all, which lowers the risk of medication side effects and the development of antibiotic resistance.

“Based on a number of new trials evaluating transrectal and transperineal biopsies, I believe transperineal biopsy should be the new standard of care moving forward,” said Alexander Kenigsberg, M.D., director of urologic oncology at Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and VCU Health. “We have probably been underestimating the morbidity associated with transrectal biopsies and, as the evidence has matured, it clearly shows transperineal biopsies to be a safer option for patients.”

To learn more about VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and available treatments, click here or call 804-828-7999 to schedule an appointment.