[Transrectal biopsy of the prostate for the detection of non-palpable prostate cancer: a comparison of 6 versus 12 core biopsy].

PURPOSE: Several studies suggest that extended transrectal prostate biopsy more than 6 core may improve the cancer detection rate. We compared 6 and 12 core biopsies to determine the impact on cancer detection and complication rate. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 150 patients who underwent transrectal ultrasound guided prostate biopsy between January 1999 and December 2003. Patients who were suspected to have prostate cancer on digital rectal examination and/or who had a history of previous prostate biopsy were excluded. Sextant biopsy was performed in 52 patients (6 core group) and 12 core biopsy was performed in 98 patients (12 core group). The cancer detection rate and post-biopsy complication rate were estimated. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the overall cancer detection rate between 6 and 12 core groups (17 of 52 men or 32.7% versus 35 of 98 men or 35.7%). In addition, even if calculated the cancer detection rate stratified according to a PSA of 0 to 4.0, 4.1 to 10.0 and greater than 10.0 ng/ml, there was no significant difference between both groups. There was also insignificant difference of complication rate between both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The results of our study showed that there was no significant difference in cancer detection and complication rate between both groups.