Comparing two methods of prostate biopsy for cancer detection

Prospective, Randomized Study Comparing Transperineal and Transrectal Prostate Biopsy Efficacy and Complications (ProBE-PC Trial)

Not applicable Interventional Albany Medical College · NCT04081636

This study tests which of two prostate biopsy methods—transrectal or transperineal—is better at finding cancer and causing fewer complications for men who need a biopsy.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment840 (estimated)
SexMale
SponsorAlbany Medical College Academic / other
Locations1 site (Albany, New York)
Trial IDNCT04081636 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the efficacy and complications of two prostate biopsy methods: transrectal and transperineal. Men needing a prostate biopsy due to suspected cancer will be randomly assigned to one of the two approaches. The research aims to determine which method is more effective in reducing complications and improving cancer detection rates. Both methods will utilize MRI/ultrasound fusion guidance to enhance accuracy and minimize risks. The study will also assess differences in infection rates and the detection of high-grade cancers.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are men scheduled for a prostate biopsy due to clinical suspicions of prostate cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who have had previous rectal surgery or have perineal skin abnormalities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to a safer and more effective method for prostate cancer detection, reducing complications for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While transrectal biopsy is common, the transperineal approach is less tested in the U.S., making this study's comparative analysis novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* All patients who are scheduled to undergo prostate biopsy for suspected prostate cancer as part of their regular medical care
* Either with or without an MRI

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with no access to rectum (due to previous rectal surgery)
* Any abnormalities of the perineal skin (e.g. infection)
* Patients whose procedure requires sedation or general anesthesia

Where this trial is running

Albany, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Prostate CancerPSAInfectionProstate biopsyinfectionbleeding
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.