Shore Physicians Group Urologist Dr. Carl Gjertson Now Performing Transperineal Prostate Biopsies at Shore Medical Center
Shore Physicians Group proudly announces that Dr. Carl K. Gjertson, a renowned urologist with expertise in robotic surgery, is now offering transperineal prostate biopsies to patients. This advanced procedure not only enhances diagnostic accuracy but also significantly reduces the risk of infection, providing patients with a safer and more effective option for prostate cancer diagnosis.
Traditional Prostate Biopsy: Understanding the Risks
The typical prostate biopsy method involves a transrectal approach, where the biopsy needle is passed through the rectum to reach the prostate. While effective, this method carries a 3-4% risk of severe infection due to bacteria present in the rectum, which can enter the bloodstream during the procedure. To mitigate this risk, patients require three days of prophylactic antibiotics. Despite these precautions, some patients may still experience infections or even sepsis, a serious condition defined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by the body’s response to infection.
Transperineal Prostate Biopsies: A Safer Approach
Dr. Gjertson’s introduction of transperineal prostate biopsies eliminates the need to go through the rectum, reducing the risk of infection substantially. In this procedure, the biopsy needle is inserted through the perineum (the area between the scrotum and anus), bypassing the rectum entirely. This method not only minimizes infection risk but also enhances the ability to reach difficult-to-access areas of the prostate, potentially improving the diagnostic accuracy for prostate cancer.
Meet Dr. Carl K. Gjertson, a Leader in Urologic Care
Dr. Gjertson brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Shore Physicians Group. A graduate of Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons, he also holds an undergraduate degree in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry from Yale University. He has been a key figure in the field of urology, serving as an Assistant Professor of Surgery in the Division of Urology at the University of Connecticut Health Center since 2007 and leading the Urology Division at Saint Francis Hospital from 2014 to 2019.
Board-certified by the American Board of Urology, Dr. Gjertson completed his urology residency and a fellowship in laparoscopy, robotics, and endourology. His expertise and dedication to urologic care are reflected in his numerous accolades, including being named a “Top Doctor” in Connecticut and Hartford publications for over a decade. Beyond clinical practice, he has made substantial contributions to urologic research and education, authoring many peer-reviewed publications and presenting at national conferences.
Accessing Advanced Urological Care with Shore Physicians Group
Dr. Gjertson is now seeing patients at Shore Cancer Center, conveniently located across from Shore Medical Center. His addition to the Shore Physicians Group team ensures that patients in the region have access to leading-edge diagnostic and treatment options in urology, including robotic surgery for prostate cancer and now, safer transperineal prostate biopsies.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Carl Gjertson, please call Shore Physicians Group at 609-365-6239.
