Impact noise of prostate biopsy devices.

To analyse the impact noise generated by prostate biopsy devices. In a laboratory setting, repeated impact noise was recorded at distances of 50 cm and 100 cm using five brands of device on chicken meat, an apple and an empty target. In a clinical setting, the impact noise levels of prostate biopsy devices were recorded in 40 real patient cases using three brands of device. In the laboratory setting, the average SPL (sound pressure level) peak level ranged from 104.3 to 121.3 dB. The highest impact noise levels were measured with the Monopty device, ranging from 114.8 to 122.4 dB. In the clinical setting, there were no statistical differences between repeated SPL values for each specific target. Also, the noise levels were equal when the same device brand was used at 50 cm and 100 cm. The highest SPLs were recorded with the Monopty device, which ranged from 110 to 127 dB. The corresponding values for the Max-Core and Multicore were from 106 to 122.5 dB and from 108 to 116.5 dB, respectively. Biopsy devices generate high peak levels of impact noise. Personnel performing biopsies are advised to consider using hearing protection, even though the impact noise may not induce permanent hearing loss.