A prostate MRI uses an MRI machine to take very detailed images through the prostate, a small gland at the lower end of the pelvis. Your Doctor has determined that you are at risk of having an abnormal prostate. You may have a raised PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) blood test. This may be due to prostate cancer, but is often due to benign causes such as inflammation of BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). MRI helps to distinguish between these conditions and is able to detect and localise areas which your Doctor may then target during biopsy. MRI findings may assist your Doctor in determining future management and treatment.
Once you have made your appointment, a member of our booking staff will forward you detailed instructions to follow to prepare for the test. It is important to follow these instructions to enable us to obtain the clearest images possible to assist with your diagnosis.
The test takes approximately 30-40 minutes to complete.
Upon arrival you will be asked to complete a detailed MRI safety questionnaire so we can confirm your safety to enter the MRI scanner. A member of our MRI staff will explain the procedure and give you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. You will be asked to change into a gown and provided with a locker/change cubicle to store your clothing and belongings.
You will be asked to lie on your back for the scan and a piece of equipment will be placed over your pelvis. To obtain clear images we usually administer two injections, one helps to keep the bowel and adjacent structures stationary (buscopan) and the other is a contrast agent, or dye (gadolinium) to provide additional information on the scan.
You will be provided with headphones and an emergency buzzer should you need to contact the MRI staff urgently. You will be positioned inside the MRI scanner (which is open at both ends), so that your pelvis is in the centre of the scanner. Generally your head will be very close to the outside of the scanner.
Approximately 10% of patients may experience some temporary blurred vision from the buscopan injection. This usually resolves within an hour. If you experience this, please advise our staff who will monitor you within the department. You are free to continue on with the rest of your day following the scan and resolution of any blurred vision.
A formal report will be prepared by one our experienced Radiologists and forwarded to your referring Doctor. This may take up to approximately 72 hours.
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