We first performed 10-core transperineal prostate biopsy at our institution in 2018. After having acquired the technique and experience, we developed a biopsy protocol that could be modified according to prostate size (Fig): 10 cores for prostate size <30 cc, 16 cores for prostate size 30 to 50 cc, and 20 cores for prostate size >50 cc.

We currently take a 24-core prostate biopsy (Fig d), irrespective of prostate size, to further improve the detection of prostate cancer. There is no gold standard protocol for total number of cores required in any patient; it is dictated by hospital policy, availability of resources, and the experience of the urologist.

This video demonstrates systematic transperineal prostate biopsy.

The instruments used during the procedure comprised an ultrasound machine with long side-fire sensor probe, a bed with two leg supports to facilitate lithotomy position, one disposable biopsy gun, two needles for local anaesthesia, two metal trocars, and eight specimen bottles.

Before the procedure and in the absence of any contraindication, patients are prescribed a single dose per oral 1 g Augmentin and 500 mg ciprofloxacin. One tube of per rectal 4.5 oz Fleet Enema is administered as bowel preparation. Local anaesthetic (EMLA) cream is applied to the patient’s perineum 1 hour before the procedure.

Step 1: the perineum is disinfected with chlorhexidine.

Step 2: 10 mL of 1% lidocaine is injected through each side of the perineum into the periprostatic plane as local anaesthesia, at an angle of 45° and 15 mm away from the anus as shown.

It is vital to maintain the needle parallel to the ultrasound probe to ensure continued visualisation of the needle.

Step 3: a 14-gauge metal trocar is inserted through the right side of the perineum under ultrasound guidance.

Step 4: anterior sector prostate biopsies are taken by tilting an 18-gauge disposable biopsy gun downwards.

It is important not to hit the urethra during the procedure.

Step 5: basal sector prostate biopsies are taken.

Step 6: central sector prostate biopsies are taken.

Step 7: posterior sector prostate biopsies are taken.

Step 8: Left lobe prostate biopsies are also taken using a technique similar to that for the right lobe.

Final step: After removing the metal trocars, haemostasis is achieved by compression. A transparent adhesive film dressing is sprayed over the two puncture sites.

No post-procedure antibiotic is required.

All authors contributed to the concept or design of the study, acquisition of the data, analysis or interpretation of the data, drafting of the manuscript, and critical revision of the manuscript for important intellectual content. All authors had full access to the data, contributed to the study, approved the final version for publication, and take responsibility for its accuracy and integrity.

The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

This study received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

This study was approved by the Joint Chinese University of Hong Kong–New Territories East Cluster Clinical Research Ethics Committee (Ref CREC 2018.323). The patient provided written informed consent.