Massive retropubic hemorrhage after needle biopsy of the prostate

This case of postoperative retropubic hemorrhage after needle biopsy of the prostate is reported to remind all who perform the procedure and all who refer patients for it that serious hemorrhage can result from improper management of the biopsy needle. If the biopsy needle is passed completely through the gland, the periprostatic vascular plexus is penetrated, and further advancement can place the point of the needle in the rich pudendal vascular plexus. The biopsy maneuver done with the cutting end of the needle in one of these vascular areas can result in serious hemorrhage.