Prostate MRI: Information for Patients
What is a prostate MRI?
This test allows the Radiology doctor (Radiologist) to look closely at the prostate gland and areas near it. Using magnets and computers, the Radiologist can get a very detailed picture of the inside of your body. This detail may not have been available in previous tests you had done on your prostate. There is no x-ray exposure from this test.
How do I prepare for this test?
There are several things you need to do in order to prepare for this exam. Please follow the instructions below very carefully.
- If you are claustrophobic, or you tend to feel anxious in closed spaces, please let your doctor know prior to scheduling your exam. If needed, we can arrange for a Radiology nurse to administer oral sedation during your exam.
- It is very important that you do not ejaculate for the three days prior to the exam. This preparation makes it easier for your doctor to see certain areas on your MRI.
The day before your scan
Please go to the drug store and purchase a mild laxative such as ‘Docusate Sodium’ (pills)’ or ‘Senokot’ (pills) and a ‘Fleet Enema’. Generics are fine.
After your evening meal on the night before your scan, confine your intake to ‘clear liquids’ such as: water, clear chicken broth, apple juice, plain tea, ginger ale. Before bed take one adult dose of the laxative (see box directions, usually 2 pills). One hour before leaving your home the next day, use the enema.
On the day of your exam
- Do not eat or drink for 4 hours prior to your exam.
- Take any needed medicine with a small amount of water. If you are diabetic, please check with your doctor about adjusting any medication while you are not eating.
What happens during the test?
- First, we will ask you to fill out some papers. Then you will change into a hospital gown for the test.
- A technologist will explain the exam in detail and will answer any questions you may have about your exam.
- You will also have an IV started. The IV will be used for MRI contrast that will be injected during this test.
- In order to obtain the pictures, we need to use a special antenna called an “endorectal coil.” This will be placed gently into your rectum by a Radiologist or a Nurse Practitioner. This can cause a sensation similar to that of having to have a bowel movement.
- Once the coil is in place, you will be given an injection (shot) in your arm, called glucagon. This is a hormone your body produces naturally. It helps your intestines, to relax and makes the pictures more clear. **Glucagon affects your body’s blood sugar. Please let us know if you are a diabetic.
- You will then slide into the MRI scanner. The exam lasts approximately an hour.
Will it hurt?
- You may feel some discomfort when the endorectal coil is inserted, but this only lasts a moment. Please note that we use a lubricant that contains a medicine to decrease sensitivity and minimize discomfort. Once the coil is in place, you may feel pressure but, you should not feel any discomfort. Most men report that this exam is not overly uncomfortable.
How will I feel afterwards?
- You should feel fine, with no after-effects from the MRI
- You will be provided with a ‘snack pack’ which you should eat before leaving the unit and an information sheet about the effects of the glucagon injection, with instructions for eating after you leave.
How will I learn the results?
A radiologist will review the results with your doctor, who will then explain them to you.
Questions?
Call: Cheryl Bunting RNP, MS at 617-754-2092 or Speak to a Senior MRI Technologist at 617- 754-2084
This material was prepared by clinicians from the department of radiology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. It is produced and distributed by the Beth Israel Deaconess Learning Center. © 2005, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. All rights reserved. MC0166, Rev. 5/05
