The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence have released new draft guidance which could reduce the chances of biopsy related sepsis in men with suspected prostate cancer.
The new diagnostic guidance investigates the different options currently available for prostate cancer diagnosis including local anaesthetic transperineal (LATP) prostate biopsy, Trinity Perine Grid and UA1232 puncture attachment.
In the UK, prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in men according to Cancer Research UK , mainly affecting people aged over 50.
Currently, the NICE guidance recommends a multiparametric MRI in first instances for suspected clinically localised prostate cancer.
After the initial MRI, a prostate biopsy is offered to take samples from the prostate for analysis. One method which is still currently used is TRUS, a transrectal ultrasound guided biopsy.
TRUS can be associated with serious infections which can result in hospitalisation.
Dr Mark Kroese, chair of the NICE diagnostics advisory committee, said: “People with suspected prostate cancer can now have a different option when it comes to having a biopsy.
“The committee heard from patient experts that there are concerns they are not getting clear and accurate information about having a biopsy, they are worried about an associated risk of infection, and the severity and duration of side effects.
“LATP using a freehand needle positioning device for taking a prostate biopsy should reduce unnecessary infections and therefore antibiotic use, benefitting both the patient and the NHS.”
In a LATP biopsy, a freehand needle positioning device is used which is attached to an ultrasound probe to help target biopsy sampling.
When compared to the TRUS method, LAPT can significantly reduce the risk of biopsy-related sepsis, therefore reducing hospital admissions and the need for preventative antibiotics.
