Related Experiment Videos
[Peritonitis following transrectal biopsy of the prostate]
E da Silva1, B Pereiro Alvarez, S Garimaldi Pérez
1Servicio de Urología, Clínica Povisa, Vigo, España.
Objective:
An uncommon complication of prostatic transrectal biopsy is described.
Methods/Results:
A case of peritonitis arising from a recto-peritoneal fistula after transrectal biopsy of the prostate is reported. The patient presented symptoms of peritonitis 15 days after undergoing ambulatory transrectal prostatic biopsy elsewhere. The imaging studies showed intraprostatic hypodense collection and peritonitis due to a recto-peritoneal fistula. The diagnosis was confirmed by laparotomy. The patient died 7 days postoperatively due to acute renal failure.
Conclusion:
Transrectal biopsy of the prostate is a simple procedure, but it is not free from serious complications.
Insights
Transrectal prostate biopsy can lead to rare but serious complications, including recto-peritoneal fistula and peritonitis. This case highlights the potential for severe outcomes following this common diagnostic procedure.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Surgical Complications
- Gastroenterology
Context:
- Transrectal biopsy of the prostate is a common diagnostic procedure.
- Complications, though infrequent, can be severe.
- Prompt recognition and management are crucial for patient outcomes.
Purpose:
- To describe a rare complication of transrectal prostatic biopsy.
- To highlight the potential for peritonitis secondary to recto-peritoneal fistula.
- To emphasize the importance of vigilance for serious complications.
Summary:
- A case of peritonitis resulting from a recto-peritoneal fistula after transrectal prostate biopsy is presented.
- The patient developed peritonitis 15 days post-biopsy, with imaging revealing an intraprostatic collection and fistula.
- Diagnosis was confirmed intraoperatively, but the patient succumbed to acute renal failure post-surgery.
Impact:
- Underscores that transrectal prostate biopsy, while generally safe, carries risks of significant morbidity and mortality.
- Informs clinicians about a rare but life-threatening complication.
- May prompt review of biopsy protocols and post-procedure monitoring.