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DIAGNOSING PROSTATE PROBLEMS: MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)

Many urologists find MRI to be the most useful imaging tool around. It creates high-quality pictures of the internal organs far sharper than those produced by a CAT scan. MRI involves using an electromagnet to stimulate the hydrogen molecules in the water in the body. As these molecules vibrate, they give off small electrical charges that are sensed by die MRI machine and translated into an image. No radiation is involved, as MRI makes use of a magnetic field and radio-frequency signals.

MRI presents superior pictures, and it is a precise tool for viewing the internal makeup of the brain, spinal cord, and bones. It is normally used by doctors not to diagnose prostate cancer but rather to see what stage it is in so they can best decide how to treat it. Aside from surgery, it is the most sensitive test for observing the spread of the disease through the prostate capsule or seminal vesicles.

A newer use for the MRI is in early detection, through the use of small probes that have been developed for the transrectal MRI, which are placed in the rectum. Some urologists believe this is helpful in preventing unnecessary biopsies, although others question the procedure. If costs come down, it may be used more for the detection of prostate cancer in the early stage.

The MRI tells the doctor it abnormalities in die bones are due to cancer, but it does not provide any additional information about the lymph nodes, which are a common site for die spread of malignant cells.

The MRI causes no pain and can be done in about thirty minutes on an outpatient basis. It only hurts in the pocketbook, but it is covered by insurance and Medicare. When you get your bill for this procedure, keep in mind that the cost of the machine is in the millions.

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