What is an MRI Multiparametric Prostate scan?

An MRI Prostate uses an MRI Scanner to produce detailed images of prostate gland.  This may be used as an investigation if you have high PSA or other possible symptoms of prostate cancer, or to help doctors decide which part of the prostate to conduct a biopsy on.

New Medicare (MBS) Items for Multiparametric MRI of the Prostate

Medicare has introduced new rebates for some MRI Prostate scans from 1 July 2018 (Department of Health information sheet). There are specific Medicare criteria that apply in order to qualify for these new rebates.  To assess if you are eligible for a rebate, we need to view your referral from the Specialist or Consultant Physician prior to booking your appointment; so please email it to us on bookings@envisionmi.com.au.

What happens during an MRI Multiparametric Prostate scan?

A. Before your scan

Implanted Devices

Please read IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING IMPLANTED DEVICES before your scan. It is also important to inform us prior to booking if you have had a total hip replacement.

What to bring

• Your request form
• Any relevant previous imaging
• Your Medicare card and any concession cards

Preparation – The day before your scan

Please refrain from all sexual activity for 3 days prior to your scan. This enables the seminal vesicles to fill, enabling a more accurate diagnosis.

There is no need to fast from food or drink. You will routinely require an IV injection, so it is beneficial to be hydrated, without needing a full bladder.

Preparation – On the day of the scan

You will be asked to fill out a MRI Safety Check list to confirm you do not have any contraindicated items or implants in/on your body. The MRI Technologist will ensure that no potentially unsafe items enter the scan room.

B. During your MRI Multiparametric Prostate Scan

Scan

We will ask you to empty both your bladder and bowel just prior to your examination. Even a small amount of gas or faecal matter within your rectum can have a significant detrimental impact to the accuracy of your results. You will also require an IV cannula in your arm. Through this we will inject a drug called Buscopan to slow down the normal peristaltic movements of your bowel and bladder for a short time. This results in much clearer images. Towards the end of the test, Gadolinium based contrast agent (dye) is injected through a vein into your arm to aid in the detection of abnormalities.

Risks and side effects

An MRI Scan is a very low-risk procedure. Complications are rare during this procedure however you should be informed of the possible risks and side effects. Risks associated with this procedure include:

• An allergic reaction to intravenous contrast material can  simulate short term allergic response such as itching, a rash or hives. A more serious allergic reaction to intravenous contrast is called an anaphylactic reaction. When this occurs, the patient may experience severe hives and/or extreme difficulty in breathing. This reaction is extremely rare, and requires emergency treatment.

Who will perform my scan?

Our caring team of experienced MRI Technologists will help put you at ease and ensure you have the most comfortable MRI experience possible, whilst specifically catering the scan protocol to best suit your clinical condition.

What happens after an MRI Multiparametric Prostate scan?

How do I get my results?

After your appointment, the information from your scan is processed and interpreted by Envision’s specialist MRI Radiologists before delivery of a report to your doctor or specialist. Please see our billing information page for important information regarding Medicare rebates for MRI scans.

Post procedural information

You will be able to return to your normal daily activities after your scan.

You should encounter no ill effects from your MRI and will be able to go about your regular daily activities after your scan.

• MRI Patient Checklist
• MRI Contrast Consent Form