Are you looking for a prostate magnetic resonance (MR) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure in and around Denver, Colorado?

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Turn to Health Images, where patient-centric care is our priority. We’ll walk you through the process of any medical imaging procedure to help you feel comfortable and know what to expect. Our services ensure you receive accurate results fast with state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging equipment.

What is prostate MR? 

A prostate MR is a non-invasive, painless procedure that detects prostate cancers as accurately as a biopsy. It uses magnetic resonance technology to create images of the prostate gland. An MRI technologist uses an MR scanner to create images of various body tissues that a radiologist can then diagnose abnormalities.

An MRI machine is a powerful, large magnet that uses radio and magnetic waves to produce detailed images of the body’s soft structures and tissues, like the prostate. During a prostate MR, patients undergo a 30-to-45-minute scan. While your technologist performs the imaging, they may also complete MR spectroscopy, adding a few minutes to that duration.

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What are some common uses for prostate MR?

Your doctor uses MRI to detect prostate cancer, and occasionally, to evaluate other issues related to the prostate, including:

  • Complications after pelvic surgery.
  • Abnormal conditions present at birth.
  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPN) or an enlarged prostate.
  • Prostate abscess or infection (prostatitis).

How should I prepare for a prostate MRI?

Before getting a prostate MRI, patients should:

  • Mention any concerns, such as claustrophobia during previous MR procedures while scheduling your appointment. Technologists may be able to find accommodations to ease the process.
  • Avoid consuming caffeine 24 hours before the MRI or having intercourse 48 hours beforehand. Doing so helps to ensure your results are clear.
  • Prepare for a bowel prep regimen to complete before your test if requested. Refrain from eating for four to six hours before your test and urinate before your test so that your bladder is empty.
  • Change into the medical scrubs (top and pants) or hospital gown provided for you. You may be able to wear your own clothing if it lacks metal fasteners and is loose-fitting.
  • Ensure you’ve communicated with your doctor about anything that may affect your test. Some MRI equipment can damage medical devices like pacemakers.

What are the benefits of an MRI procedure?

MR prostate procedures offer many benefits, including:

  • Compared to the iodine-based contrast materials used for x-rays and computed tomography (CT) scanning, the MRI gadolinium contrast material is less likely to cause an allergic reaction in patients.
  • MRIs can detect abnormalities that may be obscured with other imaging methods.
  • Multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) scans help determine if cancer has spread beyond the prostate and distinguish between high-risk/aggressive and low-risk/slow-growing prostate cancers.
  • MRIs diagnose benign conditions such as infection and an enlarged prostate, and a broad range of conditions, including cancer.
  • This procedure does not expose the body to radiation and is a non-invasive imaging technique.
  • MR images of the body’s soft-tissue structures are more detailed than those from other imaging methods.

Find a Colorado location for MR prostate imaging

For MR prostate services nearby in Denver, Colorado, and the surrounding areas, contact the Health Images team at a facility near you to make an appointment. See why our dedication to patient satisfaction and quality of care make us the premier provider of accurate diagnostic services in Colorado.