Periprostatic nerve blockade for transrectal ultrasound guided biopsy of the prostate: a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study.

PURPOSE

We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study to assess the safety and efficacy of periprostatic anesthesia administration during prostate biopsy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From May to November 2000 transrectal ultrasound guided prostate biopsy was performed in 132 consecutive men due to an abnormal digital rectal examination and/or elevated prostate specific antigen. During biopsy 66 patients each were randomly assigned to receive an injection of 1% lidocaine or normal saline. Immediately after biopsy the pain score was recorded independently by patients and the physician using a 10-point linear scale. In addition, patients were given a descriptive questionnaire to be completed at home and mailed back within 2 weeks of biopsy.

RESULTS

Mean patient perceived pain scores plus or minus standard deviation of 2.7 +/- 0.21 in the lidocaine and 4.7 +/- 0.26 in the saline groups were significantly different (p <0.0001), as were mean physician perceived scores of 2.9 +/- 0.27 and 5.1 +/- 0.34, respectively (p = 0.0001). Mean questionnaire scores for pain during biopsy of 2.3 +/- 0.13 in the lidocaine and 3.1 +/- 0.18 in the saline groups were also significantly different (p = 0.0006), as were mean questionnaire scores for pain after biopsy of 1.8 +/- 0.11 and 2.3 +/- 0.13, respectively (p <0.006). There were no adverse effects of injection.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show a significant benefit of periprostatic anesthesia over placebo in a randomized double-blind trial. This safe, simple and rapid technique should be applied at transrectal ultrasound guided prostate biopsy to limit undue patient discomfort.