Change from transrectal to transperineal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy under local anaesthetic eliminates sepsis as a complication

Transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) biopsy of the prostate is associated with increased risk of post-procedural sepsis with associated morbidity, mortality, re-admission to hos-pital, and increased healthcare costs. In the study institution, active surveillance of post-procedural infection complications is performed by clinical nurse specialists for prostate cancer under the guidance of the infection prevention and control team. To protect hospital services for acute medical admissions related to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, TRUS biopsy services were reduced nationally, with exceptions only for those patients at high risk of prostate cancer. In the study institution, this change prompted a complete move to transperineal (TP) prostate biopsy performed in outpatients under local anaesthetic. TP biopsies eliminated the risk of post-procedural sepsis and, consequently, sepsis-related admission while maintaining a service for prostate cancer diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. ?? 2022 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The Healthcare Infection Society.

Automated summary

TRUS biopsy of the prostate carries an increased risk of post-procedural sepsis. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the study institution reduced TRUS biopsy services and switched to transperineal biopsy to eliminate the risk of post-procedural sepsis and maintain a service for prostate cancer diagnosis.