MRT of the Prostate

Multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) in prostate diagnostics

Purpose of an MRI prostate examination

Multi-parametric MRI (mpMRI) of the prostate is performed to precisely diagnose possible changes or diseases of the prostate. The most common indications include

  • Clarification of an elevated PSA value: If the PSA value is elevated, the MRI is used to differentiate between harmless changes such as benign prostate enlargement and possible malignant tumours.

  • Early detection of prostate cancer: mpMRI enables the detection of cancerous tumours at an early stage.

  • Localisation and characterisation of tumours: If prostate cancer is suspected, MRI helps to determine the exact location and extent of the tumour.
  • Planning targeted biopsies: The examination provides high-resolution images that can assist in carrying out precise tissue biopsies.
  • Therapy monitoring and aftercare: After treatment, e.g. surgery or radiotherapy, MRI is used to check the success of the therapy and recognise possible relapses at an early stage

Advantages of an MRI prostate examination

  • High-precision imaging: mpMRI combines various imaging techniques (e.g. T2-weighted images, diffusion imaging, dynamic contrast imaging) and enables detailed visualisation of the prostate and surrounding tissue.
  • Non-invasive: Compared to other diagnostic methods, such as transrectal ultrasound or a systematic biopsy, MRI is painless and without risk of injury.
  • Reduction of unnecessary biopsies: With the help of MRI, only suspicious areas can be specifically biopsied, reducing the number of unnecessary tissue samples.
  • Early and reliable diagnosis: It enables the detection of aggressive tumours before symptoms appear and minimises the risk of overdiagnosis of less dangerous changes. Assessment of tumour extent: MRI provides precise information on whether a tumour has exceeded the prostate capsule or whether neighbouring structures are affected.
  • Radiation-free: In contrast to CT scans, the examination is performed without X-rays, which makes it safer.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about mpMRI

mpMRT stands for

‘multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging’

multiparametric: Several MRI sequences or image series are acquired on the basis of and to visualise different properties of the imaged tissue By analysing all sequences together, a cancer diagnosis in the prostate can be made with a high degree of accuracy

Magnetic resonance imaging (synonym: magnetic resonance imaging): Imaging procedure in medical diagnostics in which cross-sectional images of various tissues are generated in a strong magnetic field and by radio waves No potentially harmful X-rays are used.

If the MRI does not show a suspected cancerous centre, the patient does not need a biopsy. A biopsy is only necessary if the suspicion of prostate cancer is confirmed by MRI.

Do you have metal implants in your body, such as a pacemaker or an inner ear implant?
Do you have claustrophobia?
Do you have any known allergies?
Do you take medication regularly?
What previous illnesses are known? For example, do you have increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma)?
Have you already had a prostate biopsy? If so, when?

 

An MRI scan of the prostate usually takes about 30 minutes.

No, magnetic resonance imaging is painless. However, the strong magnetic fields produce loud knocking noises, which some patients find unpleasant. For this reason, you will be fitted with sound-absorbing headphones.

Private health insurance companies usually cover the costs of an mpMRI without any problems. However, please check with your health insurance company in advance.

In our practice, there is no possibility of settlement with statutory health insurance companies in Germany.

Of course, you can also have the examination carried out in our practice at your own expense.

PSA stands for ‘prostate-specific antigen’, a protein produced by the prostate, ‘laboratory marker’ for prostate changes

Elevated values occur with

Inflammation of the prostate
Benign enlargement of the prostate
Mechanical stimulation (e.g. cycling)
Prostate cancer