Saline cleansing can prevent infective complications after transrectal prostate biopsy: A randomized prospective...

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Infectious Disease Prevention
• Medical Procedures

Background:

• Transrectal prostate biopsy (TRUS-PB) is a common procedure for diagnosing prostate cancer.
• Infection is a significant complication following TRUS-PB, often managed with antibiotic prophylaxis and rectal preparation.
• The role of specific rectal cleansing agents in preventing post-biopsy infections requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of antiseptic solutions versus mechanical rectal irrigation with saline in reducing infection rates after TRUS-PB.
• To evaluate the impact of different rectal preparation methods on infectious complications and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial was conducted with patients undergoing TRUS-PB.
• Patients received standard antibiotic prophylaxis and were randomized into three groups based on rectal irrigation strategy.
• Infection rates, fever incidence, and pathological outcomes were compared between groups.

Main Results:

• No significant difference was observed in infection rates (p=0.780) or fever incidence (p=0.776) between groups.
• Overall complication rates were low (4%).
• Pathological analysis outcomes were comparable across all irrigation strategies (p=0.764).

Conclusions:

• Mechanical rectal cleansing with saline is as effective as antiseptic solutions in preventing infections post-TRUS-PB.
• Saline offers a cost-effective, side-effect-free alternative for rectal preparation.
• Findings suggest a potential shift from mandatory antiseptic use to mechanical cleansing, especially for patients with allergies.