How many have had biopsy while being put to sleep ?

When I had my DRE I was in quite a bit of discomfort. My urologist insisted on doing the biopsy under a general anaesthetic and upon reading the experiences of other posters, I am glad I was having a nap while it was done.

Thanks lifeguyd and dot'52. I wonder if lifes are lost or put in jeopardy since people might avoid tests/treatment because urologists are set in their way and are more concerned about their ease-of-routine and, yes, even money than accommodating/helping their patients. It's hard enough facing such a serious illness without dealing with invasive tests that could be administered with the patient's pain and anxiety in mind.

Post Edited (rocket1952) : 11/12/2008 9:22:17 AM (GMT-7)

From what I've read,
The biopsy experience from patient to patient varies due to several factors. The number of cores taken, the striking of a nerve, resistance to Lidocaine or other numbing agents, improper application of numbing agents, prostate shape and size, and a prostate that is just sensitive to pain, all can factor into why one patient has pain issues and another does not. Saturation biopsies almost always require a general anesthesia because the prostate is hit from 24 to 45 times or more. It is recommended in these cases to be "put under" because they almost always cause sharp pain.

For me the experience was only uncomfortable, but only 8 core were taken. I don't know why standard biopsies are from 6 to 16 cores from doctor to doctor, only to say they do weigh the fact that the more minimizing pain with less intrusion versus knowing that more cores might be necessary to find cancer.

Also, if you tend to have fear that you will suffer pain, you can always tell your doctor you would like hin to put you under.  This is your choice not his.

Tony

My urologist gave me Valium to take 30 mins prior to the procedure, 20 mg, I did not really care what he did at that point, combination of sedation and stress, all I wanted at that time was to be finished!!
Randy