Prostate MRI is an exciting new screening tool for men with prostate cancer risk factors. Using a strong magnetic field instead of x-rays, this exam provides clear and detailed pictures of the prostate gland. Helping to detect or rule out prostate cancer without the “poke and hope” approach of a blind prostate biopsy.

If a biopsy is needed, a prostate MRI can ensure the biopsy is highly targeted to the area in question, possibly reducing the number of biopsy samples needed and the number of needle sticks required to obtain them.

At Imaging Specialists, we offer the latest advanced technology to diagnose prostate cancer early with our 3T Prostate MRI imaging. CAD (Computer-aided diagnosis) combined with our 3T MRI allows our radiologists to detect prostate cancer early and to accurately evaluate the extent of disease.

WHEN DO YOU NEED A PROSTATE MRI?

You may benefit from prostate MRI at Imaging Specialists if you have two or more risk factors

  • 65 years of age or older

  • Elevated PSA

  • Abnormal digital rectal exam

  • Family history

  • African American

  • Overweight

  • Enlarged Prostate

The Prostate MRI is simple, safe, and painless. However, because we use strong magnets during the procedure, clothing with metal snaps, buttons, or zippers can't be worn. If needed, a cotton dressing gown will be available for you to use. Metal objects in your body may be hazardous or cause interference. Before your appointment, you will need to follow the below instructions:

  • Nothing to eat or drink for 4 hours before the appointment time.

  • No sexual activity of any kind for 72 hours before the appointment time.

  • You must complete a Fleet enema 1-2 hours before leaving your home to come to your appointment.

    • The Fleet enema can be found at any drug store, such as CVS or Walgreens, and is the MOST IMPORTANT part of the prep.

    • If you are not adequately completing prep, there is a good possibility you will be called back for additional images, which would entail repeating the step.

  • Please arrive 20-30 minutes early for your appointment to allow for paperwork and check-in.

  • Eating a bland diet 1-2 days before your appointment date is helpful and staying hydrated.

Most Prostate MRI’s takes around 45 minutes. Please be aware that you need to be still for the exam. Any motion can cause the images to be blurry, which can reduce the detail of the images. Once you are finished, you will be able to leave the imaging center and continue with your daily routine after the scan. One of our board-certified radiologists will interpret the results of the MRI and report the findings to your doctor within 24 hours.