MR Prostate
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a simple, painless examination that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to see internal organs and other soft tissue without the use of X-rays. MRI has no known side effects.
Aided by the speed and accuracy of a computer, MRI provides extremely detailed images of body anatomy. The strong magnetic field created by the MRI machine prepares molecules in the body to emit radio signals when exposed to prescribed radio waves. Molecules in abnormal cells produce different signals than those from normal cells, and the difference is used to create the MRI image.
Prostate MRI exams are performed for the following conditions, among others:
- Diagnosis of prostate cancer and to better characterize the extent of disease, and/or determine the presence of cancer elsewhere in the body.
- Infection (prostatitis) or prostate abscess.
- An enlarged prostate, called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
- Complications after pelvic surgery.
- Abnormal conditions present at birth.
A Very Important Note
You may not be able to undergo MRI if you have a pacemaker, inner ear implants, certain surgical clips or stents, or some other metal implants. Please notify the physician or technologist if you are unsure whether you have any of the above.
Please make child care arrangements or bring a family member to watch children during your MRI. Children may not be left unattended in the lobby.
What to Expect – General Information
Although MRI is the result of extremely complex technology, it’s simple and easy for the patients.
Please see procedure and preparation information listed below for all of our locations.
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Eating and Drinking
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Under most circumstances, no special diet, medication, or fasting is required before your MRI examination. Because there are no side effects, you do not need to change your usual habits. You can even drive yourself to and from the exam.
On occasion, patients will require or prefer sedation for their exams. This will influence preparation prior to the MRI. If you have questions about sedation, please contact your physician or the MRI Center.
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Getting Ready
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Please check in 20 minutes before your exam. Bring any pertinent x-rays or other imaging studies with you.
Since MRI exams use a magnet, the results can be altered by the presence of metal in the exam room. You will be asked to leave any jewelry, keys, and other metallic items in a locked safe. Credit cards have a metallic strip that can be altered by the magnet, and shouldn’t be exposed to the exam room.
The metal used in zippers and snaps also interferes with the magnet’s work. You may be asked to wear an examining gown in order to prevent this. Be sure to use the bathroom if necessary prior to the exam so you’ll be most comfortable for the duration of the procedure.
A VERY IMPORTANT NOTE
You cannot undergo MRI if you have a pacemaker, inner ear implants, certain surgical clips or stents, or some other metal implants. Please notify the physician or technologist if you are unsure whether you have any of the above.Please make child care arrangements or bring a family member to watch children during your MRI. Children may not be left unattended in the lobby.
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The Exam
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Your MRI exam will be given in a special room designed to prevent outside radio waves from interfering with the test. Because the test is harmless, family members may be in the room with you during the test. Specially trained staff will observe you and can communicate with you through an intercom system in the machine.
You may hear a variety of noises during the MRI examination.
You only need to relax and try to remain as still as possible during the entire exam. Most people find the specially designed examination table extremely comfortable. You will feel nothing unusual during the exam. Depending on the type of exam, you may be aware of thumping-type sounds. These sounds are normal, and in no way harmful.
The exam takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the sort of information your physician has requested.
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About Your Results
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MRI can help your physician diagnose a variety of conditions with great speed and safety.
You may leave immediately following the exam. A radiologist will interpret your study and notify your physician of the results.
If you have any questions regarding the exam or our payment policy, please call our business office at 253-886-5307.