What is a PROSTATE MRI?

What is a Prostate MRI? 

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a method for visualizing soft tissue structures in the body. Images are generated by MRI scanners using magnetic fields instead of x-rays or other forms of radiation.

When applied to imaging of the prostate, MRI offers advantages in identifying potentially significant aggressive prostate cancers and recent advances in technology also facilitate direct lesion targeted biopsy.

Why might my physician recommend that I have a prostate MRI? 

Prostate MRI is a highly useful staging method for prostate cancer that has been studied widely.

Elevated PSA (before first biopsy): Several studies have evaluated the ability of MRI and subsequent targeted MRI-ultrasound fusion biopsy to identify cancers within the prostate. Such techniques appear to offer improved detection rates for high-grade cancer compared with systematic sampling alone. MRI does not identify all high-grade cancers, and a negative MRI does not obviate the need for a biopsy.

Following the diagnosis of prostate cancer: Prostate MRI can be used after the diagnosis of prostate cancer as a staging tool to confirm the stage of disease, size and location of lesions within the prostate that may be relevant to treatment planning for both surgery or radiation therapy.

During active surveillance: For men with low-risk prostate cancers managed with active surveillance, MRI may be performed at the initiation of surveillance to rule out the presence of higher-grade elements not detected by a TRUS prostate biopsy, and also may be performed periodically in some cases to evaluate changes within the prostate.

Following treatment: MR imaging of the prostate or prostate bed can be utilized following surgery or radiation therapy in men with suspicion of recurrence to identify potential areas of residual disease. These may be useful in subsequent treatment planning.

How long will the MRI take?

The length of the MRI study takes between 45 minutes and one hour, including placement of an intravenous (IV) line, placement of the endorectal coil (a balloon placed inside the rectum to improve image resolution), and MR imaging. 

Why does the MRI require intravenous contrast? 

Intravenous contrast (Gadolinium DTPA) is used in prostate MRI because it improves the localization of prostate cancer and because prostate cancer can be better characterized on images acquired after the administration of contrast.

Is there a risk of radiation exposure with MRI? 

Because MRI utilizes magnetic fields, there is no exposure to ionizing radiation.

How to prepare for an MRI

While MRI exams typically do not require special preparation, there are some things for you to remember prior to having your MRI:

• Bring a copy of the order for the procedure from your healthcare provider if given a copy, your insurance card and photo identification.
• No special preparation is needed for the majority of MRI exams. If you are having a brain, spine or joint MRI, you are able to eat a regular diet. For pelvic and abdominal exams, you should not eat or drink anything for 4 hours prior to your exam.
• Take your medications as usual prior to your exam.
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing made of cotton. Sometimes, depending on the material of your clothing, you may be asked to change into scrubs for your exam.
• You will be screened prior to entering the MRI room. You must remove ALL metallic objects including guns, hearing aids, dentures, partial plates, keys, cell phone, eyeglasses, hair pins, batteries, jewelry, body piercing, watch, safety pins, paperclips, money clip, credit cards, magnetic strip cards, coins, pens, pocket knife, nail clipper, tools and clothing with metal fasteners or metallic threads. This is for your safety and ours.
• If you have any implanted devices, notify your technologist at the time of screening. These include electric pacemaker, pump stimulators, diabetic pumps or other manmade devices. It is essential to bring device cards on any items that has been deemed as MRI compatible. You would be given this at the time of your implantation of the device. The MRI technologist will confirm that device is MRI safe prior to your appointment.



The MRI system has a very strong magnetic field and it’s always on. Inappropriate entry to the MRI scanning room may result in a serious injury or death. DO NOT enter the MRI scan room without the permission of the MRI technologist. DO NOT enter the MRI scan room if you have any questions or concerns regarding the safety of your implant or device.