Prostate MRI provides detailed images of the gland and surrounding tissues. It is commonly used when prostate cancer is suspected, known or being monitored.
Why might prostate MRI be requested?
Prostate MRI may be used to investigate an elevated PSA or abnormal examination, assess a known cancer, guide biopsy planning, evaluate local spread or monitor patients on active surveillance. It can also show benign enlargement, inflammation and other pelvic findings.
Multiparametric prostate MRI combines high-resolution anatomical images with diffusion imaging and, in some protocols, contrast-enhanced imaging.
Before the scan
Please follow the preparation instructions provided – the prostate is a very small organ and we want to get the best imaging possible. You will be asked to fast for 6 hours prior to the exam, undertake a bowel preparation (including low fibre diet) from the day prior and avoid ejaculation for 48 hours prior to the exam. Continue medication unless advised otherwise.
Tell the clinic about recent prostate biopsy, surgery, implants, devices, kidney disease, allergies and possible claustrophobia. Blood from a recent biopsy can affect the MRI appearance, so the timing may matter.
Provide previous PSA results, biopsy reports, treatment history and prior imaging when available.
During the scan
You will lie on your back while a pelvic coil receives the MRI signal. You will need to remain still and may be asked to hold your breath briefly.
Gadolinium contrast may be used depending on the protocol and clinical question. The scan is not painful, but the length, noise and need to lie still can be uncomfortable for some patients.
Understanding PI-RADS
Prostate MRI reports often use PI-RADS, a 1-to-5 assessment scale describing how suspicious a lesion appears for clinically significant prostate cancer. PI-RADS is not a pathology result. A higher score increases concern but does not prove cancer, and a lower score does not exclude every cancer.
Your urologist or treating clinician considers the MRI together with PSA, PSA density, examination findings, family history and any previous biopsy.
What happens next?
The result may support surveillance, targeted biopsy, treatment planning or further review. If biopsy is recommended, the MRI can help identify the area to sample, but only pathology can confirm the cancer type and grade.
Related Patient Guides
- PG1008 Whole-Body MRI Preparation Guide
- PG1009 Understanding Whole-Body MRI Results: What It Can and Cannot Show
- PG1011 Breast MRI: How to Prepare and What to Expect
- PG1012 Liver, Pancreas and Abdominal MRI: Preparation, Contrast and MRCP
- PG1013 MR Neurography: Imaging Nerves More Clearly
- PG1014 Spine MRI: Discs, Nerves, Facet Joints and the Spinal Canal
- PG1015 Musculoskeletal MRI: Tendons, Ligaments, Cartilage and Bone Marrow
We have more information on Why Not All Whole Body MRIs are the Same and other more detailed information on our Insights page
Frequently Asked Questions
For other FAQs please visit our FAQs page
Does prostate MRI use radiation?
No.
Will I always need contrast?
Not always. The protocol depends on the clinical question and local practice.
Can MRI replace prostate biopsy?
MRI can reduce unnecessary biopsy in some pathways and guide targeted sampling, but it cannot replace pathology when tissue diagnosis is required.
| Important:Preparation varies between prostate MRI protocols. Follow the instructions provided with your booking. |
PATIENT GUIDE • PG-1010 [Patient information: Prostate MRI provides detailed images of the gland and surrounding tissues. It is commonly used when prostate cancer is suspected, known or being monitored.]
