3T mpMRI rectal vs lap ??

Men's health
1

Hi, 

I am going to see my urologist next week, to have a second opinion on a diagnosis I received last year from another uro during a DRE :"I felt a nodule on your prostate and I recommend a biopsy. "

If the nodule is confirmed, I plan to ask for a 3T mpMRI as advised by several members on this forum. However, there are 2 types, the old one is via the rectum, the new one can be placed on top of one's lap. Which one is better ? 

I know the lap one is less invasive but is it as good as the rectal one ? Also, can both be used for FLA procedures (for BPH as well as PCa) since I am leaning toward this ?

I am 63, with mild symptoms of BPH and stretched bladder, currently taking 4mg Doxazosin and just started  Finasteride 3 months ago. I know, I know Finasteride can be bad for you so please don't try to talk me out of it. My PSA has been around 3 for years. 

Thanks for any reponse.

Hank

2

Hi Hank,

The 3T MRI does not use and "endorectal coil". Offers detail resolution without it, which is great of course ;-) 3T MRI is current state of the art, why waste time with old technology 1T is my thought.

From experience I can tell you the MRI can give you a scare, images being read as high degree of malignancy,  with nothing found in the TRUS or Fusion biopsy. If your doc can use the MRI to do a Fusion biopsy then that is awesome. A biopsy is the only way to find out exactly what you are dealing with. I personally think having the 3T MRI is a great idea regardless, as it contributes greatly to forming the "big picture"!

Best of luck!

3

Thanks Pete for clarifying. I am planning to ask for 3T MRI. If there is problem, I will ask for MRI guided biopsy. Hank