Transperineal template-guided biopsy for diagnosis of prostate cancer in patients with at least two prior negative biopsies

To evaluate the prostate cancer (PCa) detection rate, PCa location, PCa significance and complications of a standardized 24-core template-guided transperineal biopsy (TPB) approach in patients with at least two negative transrectal biopsies. We prospectively recruited 50 men who had at least two negative transrectal ultrasound-guided extended biopsies in the past 24 months, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) < 20 ng/mL, a prostate volume < 100 mL, and life expectancy of at least 90 % at 10 years. All patients underwent a standardized 24-core template-guided TPB biopsy. The PCa detection rate, PCa location, PCa significance, and complications were recorded. Median age was 57.5 years and the median PSA level was 7.3 ng/ml. PCa was detected in 24 patients (48 %). The anterior zone was involved in 16 (32 %) PCa. Six PCa (25 %) were insignificant. Biopsy related complications occurred in 2 patients (4 %). A 24-core TPB is a safe procedure with a high PCa detection rate. Few of the detected PCa are clinically insignificant. Men with at least two negative transrectal biopsies may be counseled to undergo TPB.