Multiparametric MRI & How It Works
Doctors Michael Gross and Jeff Diebner have collaborated to bring Multiparametric MRI technology to THCDS.
Dr. Diebner explains that new MRI sequences allows MRI to visualize the prostate gland. “We are now able to provide detailed anatomical and functional information of the prostate”. “For example, we can measure the extent of a tumor, identify the location (or locations) of a tumor(s), and determine if a tumor has spread beyond the prostate gland. A multiparametric MRI exam uses three separate MRI sequences: T2-weighted, diffusion-weighted and dynamic contrast-enhanced images to visualize the prostate gland and surrounding tissues.
By utilizing 3T MRI and MIM technology, we have the ability to send “contoured” images to Dr. Gross. Dr. Gross utilizes the identified images from the MRI and then uses special imaging equipment to perform a targeted prostate biopsy. The specialized imaging equipment called MIM technology fuses the 3T MRI images to a patient’s live ultrasound images, enabling Dr. Gross to target specific areas identified on the MRI. With the special equipment, Dr. Gross now has the ability to target suspicious areas during the biopsy as opposed to randomly sampling areas as was done during a TRUS biopsy procedure.