What is Prostatic MRI?

Prostatic MRI is a non-invasive medical test performed to diagnose and treat pathologies of the prostate.

Uses of Prostatic MRI

  • Assessment of complications after pelvis surgery
  • Prior to prostate biopsy
  • Staging of prostate cancer
  • Evaluation of enlarged prostate
  • Rising PSA
  • Congenital abnormality
  • Infection or prostate abscess.

 

Patient preparation

  • You will be required to change into a hospital gown and remove all metal objects including keys, coins, wallet, swipe cards, jewelry, hearing aids, etc.
  • Risks and benefits of the contrast injection will be explained and a signed written consent obtained before entering the room.
  • Gadolinium is only given to patients with normal renal values.
  • Claustrophobic patients maybe accompanied into the room by relatives
  • Procedure will be explained to the patient.

 

How is the exam performed

  • Patient is positioned on moveable examination table
  • Immobilizers may be used to secure the coil in place and prevent voluntary movements.
  • An IV line will be connected to a pressure injector which will be used to administer the contrast media
  • After initial scanning, contrast is administered followed by post contrast imaging.
  • Examination is completed within an hour.

 

What to expect

  • Procedure is painless
  • Machine makes loud noises.
  • Claustrophobic patients may need to speak to their doctors about a mild sedative.
  • Patient expected to remain still for the duration of the scan.
  • Technologist will be able to see, hear and speak to you from the control area.
  • You will receive earplugs, blanket and call bulb to make you comfortable.
  • You may experience a cool sensation moving up the arm when contrast is being injected.
  • Might experience some discomfort, bruising or irritation at the injection site after injection.
  • Normal activities and diet can be resumed immediately after the examination.
  • Side effects to contrast agent are very rare.

 

 

Reference

  1. Information accessed on November 02, 2016 . www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=mr_prostate
  2. Images acquired on November 02, 2016 from https://www.google.com.jm/search?q=prostate+mri&espv=2&biw=1366&bih=638&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjf_aGZ3IrQAhUB9WMKHXh-A60Q_AUIBigB&dpr=1#imgrc=4-mUFxwl1pXM%3A
  3. Acquired November 2, 2016 from https://www.researchgate.net/figure/278712131_ fig8_ Figure-4-134-McNeal’s-zonal-anatomy-of-the-prostate-a-Transaxial-and-b-sagittal