An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan uses radiofrequency waves and magnetic fields to produce images of your prostate and surrounding tissues. A special type of MRI scan called a multi-parametric MRI (mpMRI) scan can do the same but creates more detailed pictures than a normal MRI scan.

An mpMRI prostate scan can give you peace of mind if you’re concerned about your risk of prostate cancer.

For most men, the results will be normal. If the results show any areas of concern, further investigative testing will be required. One of our expert Urologists will give you advice and discuss your options with you.

If you’re concerned about prostate cancer, you can self-refer for a private mpMRI scan at GenesisCare.

An mpMRI for prostate cancer is a screening test. On its own it won’t show if you have prostate cancer. However, doctors use the results to assess your risk of cancer being present and if more tests, such as a biopsy are required.

Recent research has found mpMRI scans combined with a PSA test, improve the diagnosis of prostate cancer. This is done by taking the volume of the prostate gland reported from an mpMRI scan, combined with the results of a PSA blood test to give a PSA density score.  This enables doctors to assess your risk of developing prostate cancer. It is also more reliable than a PSA test at showing if your risk of prostate cancer is low. If this is the case, you may be able to avoid further unnecessary tests and treatment.

You are eligible for a prostate mpMRI scan if you’re:

• Aged 40 and over with either a family history of prostate cancer, are of black ethnicity or have a high PSA level
• Aged 50 and over and not had an mpMRI prostate scan in the last 12 months

We offer mpMRI prostate scans at our centres in Oxford and Windsor.

You’ll be able to have your PSA blood test (if required) and your mpMRI scan on the same day.

If you’ve had a PSA blood test in the past 3 months, you’ll need to provide the results before your appointment.

Before your scan, we’ll ask you to complete an MRI safety questionnaire and you should let us know if you have any metal implants, body piercings or electrical devices such as a pacemaker.

You will need to have an injection of a special dye (contrast media) that will help highlight specific areas of your pelvis on this scan. This will be administered by injecting the dye into a vein in your arm or hand using a cannula (a small plastic tube).

The scan itself takes around 40 minutes and you’ll need to lie still. Our friendly and welcoming team will be on hand to make sure you’re comfortable throughout. When your scan has been completed, you'll be able to leave the centre.