Surgery·Surgery
Prostate biopsy
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A prostate biopsy is a procedure where a doctor takes tiny samples of tissue from the prostate gland. These samples are checked for cancer or other problems.
Key facts
- It is usually done when a blood test shows a high PSA level (a protein made by the prostate).
- The biopsy uses a thin needle and is guided by ultrasound (sound wave imaging).
- It takes about 10–15 minutes and is done with local anaesthetic to numb the area.
Yes, prostate biopsies are common – thousands are performed each year in the UK and around the world.
It affects men, mostly over age 50, or younger men with a high risk of prostate problems.