Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate
Prostate MRI in Casablanca
Prostate MRI examines in detail this gland located below the bladder. It is called multiparametric because it combines several types of images: anatomy, diffusion (the movement of water in tissues) and, most often, contrast enhancement after injection. The radiologist classifies suspicious areas using a standardized score, PI-RADS, which helps the urologist decide on a biopsy and target it. A coil placed over the pelvis is usually enough, with no probe in the rectum.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
Prostate MRI usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Report turnaround
Report within 48 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
GE SIGNA Prime 1.5 T
When is this exam needed?
- High or rising PSA level (a marker measured in the blood).
- An abnormality felt by the doctor during a digital rectal exam.
- Locating the areas to target before a prostate biopsy.
- Active surveillance of a prostate cancer considered not very aggressive.
- Local assessment of a known cancer before choosing treatment.
- Suspected recurrence after surgery or radiotherapy, as advised by the urologist.
How the exam is done
You change and leave your metal objects in the locker. Depending on the protocol, you are asked to urinate just before or, on the contrary, to keep your bladder slightly full. A catheter is placed in your arm.
Lying on your back, you have a coil shaped like a soft cushion on your lower abdomen. During the sequences, avoid tightening your pelvic floor (perineum) or coughing, and keep breathing calmly. The headphones reduce the noise. Gadolinium is injected toward the end, then you can go back to your activities.
Preparation
- If you are asked to, avoid ejaculation for 2 to 3 days beforehand, so that the seminal vesicles are clearly visible.
- If you have had a prostate biopsy, give its date when you book: the MRI is done at least 6 weeks later, because bleeding in the gland makes the images harder to read.
Fasting
No fasting: you can eat and drink as usual before a prostate MRI.
Contrast injection
Gadolinium is injected in most prostate MRIs, through a vein in the arm, to study the blood supply of the gland. In some situations, such as surveillance, the radiologist may do without it.
Contraindications and precautions
- Pacemaker, defibrillator, neurostimulator or ear implant: as a precaution, please tell us; recent devices are most often compatible with MRI, under conditions checked by the team.
- Metal fragment (especially in the eye), old vascular clip, implanted pump.
- Hip replacement: usually compatible, but it can create artifacts near the prostate.
- Insulin pump or glucose sensor (such as FreeStyle Libre): to be removed before the exam. Bring what you need to replace it or put it back afterwards.
- Severe kidney failure, before the gadolinium injection.
- Fear of enclosed spaces or extensive tattoos: let us know when you book.
- Prostate biopsy less than 6 weeks ago: the MRI is postponed.
Documents to bring
- Prescription from the urologist or doctor
- PSA test results, ideally showing how they have changed over time
- Reports of previous prostate biopsies or MRIs
- List of medications, especially anticoagulants and hormone treatments
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
- Recent creatinine test and implant card, if applicable
Price and insurance coverage
The price of a prostate MRI varies depending on the gadolinium injection, which is given in most cases but which the radiologist may do without during surveillance.
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
What does the PI-RADS score mean?
It is a scale from 1 to 5 that the radiologist uses to express the probability that an area corresponds to a significant cancer. A low score is rather reassuring; a high score often leads to discussing a biopsy. This score is not a diagnosis: it helps the urologist decide on the next steps.
Is a probe placed in the rectum?
No: the coil is placed over the pelvis, outside the body, and no rectal preparation is needed. You just need to stay relaxed and still during the sequences.
Why have the MRI before the biopsy?
Done beforehand, MRI helps locate suspicious areas, which the urologist can then target. It can also help avoid some biopsies when the image is reassuring, according to the specialist's opinion. If a biopsy has already been done, you need to wait at least 6 weeks before the MRI.
Can I drive after the exam?
Yes, generally. Gadolinium does not prevent you from driving.
Prostate MRI in Casablanca: how much does it cost?
The price of a prostate MRI varies depending on the gadolinium injection, which is given in most cases but which the radiologist may do without during surveillance. The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.