MRI tests help doctors find cancerCancer is a group of diseases where cells grow abnormally an... Full Definition in the body. Imaging tests such as MRI tests are being used more often in the diagnosis of prostateThe prostate is a walnut-sized gland located between the bla... Full Definition cancer because the technology now provides images that are clear enough to give a complete three-dimensional picture of the glandA gland is an organ that produces and secretes a chemical su... Full Definition and the cancer.
Who is this test best for?
Men who are considering active surveillance who want to learn more about the size and location of their cancer. Men in active surveillance who want to do follow-up testing. Men who want more precise imaging prior to a biopsy, radiotherapy, prostatectomy, or who are having an MRI-assisted biopsy. Men who are concerned about a cancer recurrence. MRI is becoming a standard part of prostate cancer care and diagnosis in major medical centers.
The procedure uses a very strong magnet. Men should discuss the details of any implants they have with their doctor before this test.
What to Expect
MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to make images of soft tissue inside the body. MRI strength is measured in "Teslas," usually abbreviated as a capital "T". A state-of-the-art MRI today operates at 1.5T. Many medical centers also offer 3T MRI, which is up to twice as strong as 1.5T MRI and provides a clearer view of anatomy. This can be an advantage for certain cancers, like those that are close to the border of the prostate that involve nerves and blood vessels. Talk to your doctor about what type of MRI will be most helpful in your case and don't be afraid to ask questions. Having a detailed image of your tumor makes many forms of treatment more effective.
Some tests use a contrast dye. If a dye is used, men may have a blood test to check kidney health before the dye is injected. During the procedure, the patient lies completely still in the MRI machine, typically inside a large tube. The tube is small and the test is loud, so men who get claustrophobic may want to ask their urologist or general practitioner to prescribe a sedative to use. Some lower-strength MRI machines are open.
No matter which type of MRI, some centers will insert a device into the rectum that will produce clearer images. The device, called an endorectal coil, is a thin wire encased in a balloon that is inflated during the procedure to keep the device in place. The procedure will last approximately 45 minutes.
Who orders or performs the test?
What are common side effects?
If a dye is used, the patient might have a metallic taste in his mouth or feel flushed after the exam. If a man is in kidney failure he should not be given certain contrast dyes due to risk of rare but serious side effects.