Prostate MRI

Prostate MRI, a non-invasive medical imaging examination, plays a crucial role in detecting prostate cancer and offering valuable insights into other prostate-related issues. By harnessing the power of advanced imaging technology, this procedure provides comprehensive information that aids in the diagnosis and management of prostate concerns.

About Prostate MRI

Prostate MRI is a non-invasive medical imaging examination that effectively detects prostate cancer and provides vital information on other prostate-related concerns.

Prostate cancer claims over 3,000 lives annually in Australia, ranking as the fourth leading cause of male mortality in the country. Age and family history increase the risk, with approximately 1 in 5 Australian males diagnosed by age 85.

Abnormal results in both prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and digital rectal examinations may prompt further tests or referral to a specialist urologist for a definitive diagnosis.

Until recently, prostate cancer detection posed challenges. However, MRI has emerged as the preferred imaging technique, delivering superior clarity and detail compared to other methods. MRI enables early diagnosis and accurate assessment of tumor extent within the prostate gland.

MRI aids in determining if cancer is confined to the area or has potentially spread to nearby or distant organs. In cases with intermediate or high likelihood of cancer spread, MRI enhances information accuracy, allowing doctors to devise suitable treatment plans. Surgeons benefit from crucial insights into cancer extent, preserving vital arteries and nerves essential for sexual function and bladder control.

An MRI also evaluates other prostate conditions like infection, abscess, enlargement, congenital abnormalities, or post-pelvic surgery complications.

Before making your appointment, you will require a referral for a Prostate MRI from your Urology or Oncology specialist.  Please speak with our dedicated bookings agents to ask about prices, locations and services. 

To achieve a successful MRI prostate scan, it is important that your bowel is empty for the procedure. You will be given 2 Durolax tablets to take the night before the procedure. These tablets should cause evacuation of your bowel early in the morning on the day of your procedure. We ask that you do not have an ejaculation for 48 hours prior to the scan. You must have nothing to eat, drink, smoke or chew for 6 hours prior to the appointment. 

On arrival to your appointment, our MRI technologist will explain the examination in detail and check your contraindication questionnaire. Once this has been checked by the MRI technologist that you are safe to have an MRI scan, they will prepare you for the scan by inserting an IV cannula for the MRI contrast to be injected during this test.  You will also be changed into a patient gown. 

An intramuscular injection will be administered 30 mins prior to the scan. The purpose of this medication is to relax the bowel to minimise motion which can interfere with the images. 

During the MRI scan, you will be positioned on your back on the MRI bed and your pelvis will move into the centre of the MRI scanner.  It is very important that you remain perfectly still while the images are being acquired. If there is movement during the scan, the scan may not be of diagnostic quality. 

After an initial series of scans, the contrast material will be injected through the IV cannula. It is normal to feel a sensation of coolness and a flushing sensation for a minute or two when the contrast is been injected. Additional series of images will be taken during or following the injection. 

The scan will take approximately 30mins.  Please be aware you will be in the department for about 1 ½ hours. 

There are no known risks or side effects from having a Prostate MRI.  After the MRI examination, you should be able to resume your normal activities immediately. A radiologist specialising in prostate imaging will interpret your MRI scans and provide a comprehensive report on the findings to your doctor. It is very important you book a timely follow-up appointment to discuss your results. 

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