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Delayed life-threatening hemorrhage after transrectal prostate needle biopsy
R A Petroski1, G L Griewe, N S Schenkman
1Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia 20307-5001, USA.
Prostate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases
|June 14, 2003
Summary
Severe rectal bleeding (hematochezia) after prostate needle biopsy can occur, even in patients on aspirin with hypertension. This case highlights the potential for serious hemorrhagic complications and the effectiveness of simple interventions.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Prostate needle biopsy is a common urological procedure.
- Minor rectal bleeding (hematochezia) is a known complication.
- Risk factors for bleeding complications include anticoagulation and hypertension.
Observation:
- A 64-year-old male patient on aspirin with uncontrolled hypertension underwent prostate needle biopsy.
- The patient experienced severe hematochezia necessitating blood transfusion.
- Bleeding was successfully managed with digital rectal compression.
Findings:
- This case demonstrates a severe hemorrhagic complication following prostate needle biopsy.
- The patient's comorbidities (aspirin use, hypertension) may have contributed to the severity of bleeding.
- Digital compression proved effective in controlling the hemorrhage.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be vigilant for severe bleeding after prostate biopsy, especially in at-risk patients.
- Management strategies for post-biopsy bleeding should be considered.
- Further research into predicting and preventing severe hemorrhagic complications is warranted.