Multiparametric Prostate MRI

What is Multiparametric Prostate MRI (mp-MRI / mp-MRG)?

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men after lung cancer. Early diagnosis is life-saving in prostate cancer, as it is in all cancers. Prostate cancer and other prostate diseases may not cause symptoms until the prostate gland enlarges enough to narrow the urinary tract.
Frequent urination, a weak or interrupted stream, leakage, and the feeling that the bladder is not completely empty are common symptoms. These findings do not always indicate prostate cancer; however, they must be evaluated.
Age, family history of prostate cancer, African American race, dietary habits, and obesity are the main known risk factors for prostate cancer.

Why is Multiparametric Prostate MRI (mp-MRI) Performed?

Multiparametric Prostate MRI is an advanced imaging method that provides a 3-dimensional (3D), high-resolution view of the prostate gland and surrounding tissues. It is non-invasive and does not affect quality of life.
Thanks to this method, many conditions can be reliably detected, including:
•    Prostate cancer,
•    Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH / prostate enlargement),
•    Infections,
•    Congenital prostate anomalies.

Advantages of Multiparametric Prostate MRI

In the past, transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) followed by biopsies was the standard method for prostate evaluation. However, since TRUS imaging did not provide the same level of clarity as mp-MRI, there was a possibility of missing cancerous areas.
In addition, infections, pain, and side effects affecting quality of life were more common with TRUS biopsies.
Multiparametric Prostate MRI offers the following advantages:
•    Clear visualization of the cancer focus
•    Prevention of unnecessary biopsies
•    Targeted, more accurate sampling if biopsy is required
•    High accuracy in monitoring recurrence and metastasis after treatment
•    Fast, non-invasive, and safe method

When is Multiparametric Prostate MRI Used?
•    Prostate cancer diagnosis and staging
•    Assessment of biopsy necessity
•    Pre-biopsy target area determination (guidance)
•    Follow-up of suspicious areas despite negative biopsy (active surveillance)
•    Post-treatment recurrence/metastasis assessment
•    Determination of prostate size and cancer spread
•    Investigation of congenital prostate anomalies
•    Imaging of complications developing after pelvic surgery

Active Surveillance in Prostate Cancer and the Role of mp-MRI

Some prostate cancers are slow-growing, and physicians may recommend active surveillance without treatment for these patients.
During active surveillance, the disease is closely monitored at regular intervals using methods such as:
•    PSA test
•    Ultrasonography
•    Multiparametric Prostate MRI
•    Bone scan

Multiparametric Prostate MRI at Our Centers

Thanks to the 4 advanced 3 Tesla MRI devices with sophisticated software available at our institutions, fast appointment scheduling is offered. When you schedule an appointment, all information regarding pre-preparation, the imaging process, and the results report is shared in detail.
For pre-preparation information: You can visit the Magnetic Resonance Imaging section.