What are the side effects of prostate biopsy surgery?
Hello Dr.
Du, I previously asked you a question and received a very detailed response.
My father was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer, but the stage has not yet been confirmed.
Nine days after undergoing a prostate biopsy, he started experiencing difficulty sitting or standing for extended periods after exercising.
He has seen three urologists, who prescribed pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, and antibiotics, but he still occasionally experiences discomfort and cannot sit for long, feeling numbness and pain in his buttocks after about five minutes.
The third doctor, after examination, believes it is not an infection issue.
Currently, it has been three weeks since the biopsy.
I would like to ask if this condition is caused by the biopsy procedure or if it could be related to metastasis? He had no unusual symptoms until nine days after the biopsy.
Should we consider seeing a rehabilitation specialist? Thank you for your assistance, Dr.
Du!
Ms. Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/14
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: It has been three weeks, so it should not be related.
Additionally, what are the results of the bone scan? If there is no metastasis, you can consider consulting the rehabilitation department at the hospital.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2018/02/14
More Info
After a prostate biopsy, it is not uncommon for patients to experience a variety of side effects, including discomfort, pain, and changes in mobility. Your father's symptoms, which include difficulty sitting or standing for extended periods and a sensation of numbness or pain in the buttocks after a short duration of sitting, can indeed be related to the biopsy procedure itself.
Prostate biopsies are typically performed using a transrectal approach, which can lead to trauma in the surrounding tissues, including the pelvic floor muscles and nerves. This trauma may result in inflammation, which can cause discomfort and pain. Additionally, the procedure can sometimes lead to temporary nerve irritation or compression, which might explain the numbness or pain he is experiencing.
It is important to note that while these symptoms can be a common side effect of the biopsy, they can also be indicative of other issues, such as muscle strain or even the development of a hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels) in the pelvic area. The fact that your father felt fine until the ninth day post-procedure suggests that his symptoms may be related to the healing process or a reaction to the biopsy rather than a sign of cancer progression or metastasis.
Given that three urologists have evaluated him and ruled out infection, it may be beneficial for him to consult a physical therapist or a rehabilitation specialist. They can assess his symptoms more thoroughly and provide targeted exercises or treatments to help alleviate his discomfort. Physical therapy can be particularly effective in addressing pelvic floor dysfunction, which may be contributing to his symptoms.
In the meantime, it is crucial for your father to continue following up with his healthcare providers. If his symptoms worsen or if he develops new symptoms, such as fever, increased pain, or changes in urinary function, he should seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, while your father's symptoms are likely related to the biopsy procedure, it is essential to monitor his condition closely and consider rehabilitation options to improve his comfort and mobility. Communication with his healthcare team will be key in managing his recovery effectively.
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