Multiparametric MRI scanning

Conventional MRI scanning has been useful in determining in men diagnosed with prostate cancer whether there is spread through the capsule (the outer lining of the prostate) or into the lymph nodes (glands within the pelvis adjacent to the prostate). It has been less accurate in determining whether areas within the prostate itself contain cancer – non-cancerous growth and inflammation within the prostate are also picked up.

Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) is the latest generation of the technique and uses modifications including diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), T2-weighted imaging (T2W) and dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE) to increase the reliability of assessment of abnormal-looking parts of the prostate. It can be helpful in deciding whether a man with a raised PSA requires a biopsy or whether a man with a previous negative biopsy requires a repeat biopsy.

Mr Yardy uses Mutiparametric MRI scanning at the Ipswich Nuffield Hospital provided by InHealth.

SpaceOAR for men undergoing radiotherapy for prostate cancer

SpaceOAR Hydrogel is a treatment given to decrease side effects for men undergoing radiotherapy for prostate cancer. It is a “rectal spacer” – a gel injected into the space between the prostate and the rectum. The treatment is administered under a short general anaesthetic and you are able to go home the same day. The body starts to absorb the gel after three months and it has usually all gone by six months.
 
www.spaceoar.com