Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Prostate Biopsy, Periprostatic Local Anesthesia and Pain Tolerance

Abstract

We have evaluated objectively pain tolerance in transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy (TRUS) using local periprostatic per rectal anesthesia as compared to the conventional method. From November 2008 to May 2009, 90 patients underwent transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy at Department of Urology, Clinical Center University Sarajevo. 90 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were randomized into 3 groups of 30 patients each. Group 1 received periprostatic local anesthesia with 2% lidocaine, group 2 received Voltaren supp placed in rectum an hour before biopsy while group 3 received no local anesthesia. Pain scale responses were analyzed for each aspect of the biopsy procedure with a visual analog scale of 0-none to 10-maximal. There was no difference between the 3 groups in pain scores during digital rectal examination, intrarectal injection and probe insertion. The mean pain scores during needle insertion in group 1 receiving periprostatic nerve block and in group 2 receiving Voltaren supp were 3,10 ± 2,32 and 5,15 ± 2,01 respectively. In group 3 (no local anesthesia), mean pain scores were 6,06 ± 2,95 which was found to be significantly different (p < 0,001). However, morbidity after the biopsy was not statistically different between all 3 groups. TRUS-guided prostate biopsy is a traumatic and painful experience, but the periprostatic blockage use is clearly associated with more tolerance and patient comfort during the exam. It is an easy, safe, acceptable and reproducible technique and should be considered for all patients undergoing TRUS biopsy regardless of age or number of biopsies.