Surgical Procedure While Desensitized to Aspirin

[Guest guest]

Dear Samters Group – I unfortunately have had two consecutive high PSA blood tests, and will need to undergo a prostate biopsy, in which 10 cores of prostate tissue will be extracted, using a spring powered needle that penetrates through the colon, into the prostate. (I am sorry if I’ve grossed you out.) I am desensitized to aspirin, and I currently take 2-325 mg tablets twice a day. My local Urologist wants me to stop taking aspirin for at least 5 days before the procedure, which means I would need to be desensitized again (a 2-day process). Scripps Clinic, where I was desensitized, has a protocol for elective surgery without completely going off of aspirin, and there may be a Urologist at the clinic who has performed prostate biopsies under this protocol. Of course, I am concerned about excessive bleeding or blood clots in an area of the body where you really don’t want this to happen. So, my question to the group is whether any of you have undergone a prostate biopsy without completely withdrawing from aspirin. And thanks, in advance, for any assistance with this difficult decision. Phil