PSMA PET-CT and MRI Scanning

What to Expect During PET-MRI Scans

We are one of only a few academic medical centers giving patients access to this lifesaving technology through clinical trials. More defined imaging lets us improve your prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, increasing the odds of a positive outcome.

You undergo PSMA-PET (prostate specific membrane antigen-positron emission tomography) in our modern IU Health Neuroscience Center.

During this outpatient test:

1. Your radiologist injects you with a low-dose radioactive tracer via an IV (intravenous) line. The tracer highlights the cancer cells. It is painless and has no side effects.
2. You lie down in our PET-CT scan machine. Unlike traditional MRI machines, the PET-CT scan machine is a big, open, disc-like tube. You are not likely to feel claustrophobic.
3. The machine finds the tracer and makes an image of that area in your body. Your scan lasts for about 45 minutes.
4. Your doctor usually shares your results with you within two to three days.

We often perform a separate MRI. Learn what to expect.

How PSMA-PET Works

Traditional MRI machines are a valuable cancer detection tool. They use powerful magnets to show images of your organs and tissues. Most cancers grow as obvious masses or tumors, so these changes are easy to see.

But prostate cancer grows differently. Prostate cancer cells often replace healthy prostate tissues, so changes aren’t as visible.

During a PET scan, the tracer binds to prostate cancer cells like a lock fits into a key. The cancer cells then “light up.” These images are laid over MRI scans or ultrasound images of the affected areas of your body. The combined imaging helps doctors more clearly see the cancer.

Benefits of PET-MRI

PET and MRI imaging does not have any side effects. Our doctors use PET and MRI to:

• Find cancer cells and confirm diagnoses
• Target affected tissue and guide appropriate treatment
• Preserve healthy tissue and nerves around the prostate during treatment, such as robotic prostatectomy or HIFU
• Detect cancer recurrence in patients who had more aggressive forms of prostate cancer

Preparing for Your PET Scan

On the day of your PET scan:

• Wear comfortable clothing.
• Avoid wearing jewelry, watches or any metals, such as zippers and snaps, that may affect the PET scan machine.
• You may be asked to put on a hospital gown once you arrive.
• You should empty your bladder before the scan.

Preparing for Your MRI

You may get your MRI on a different day than your PET scan. On the day of your MRI:

• Wear comfortable clothing.
• Avoid wearing jewelry, watches or any metals, such as zippers and snaps, that may affect the MRI machine.
• You may be asked to change into a gown before the exam.
• Let your doctor know if you have a surgically implanted device, such as a pacemaker or insulin pump, before your MRI.

After Your PET-MRI

You may return to your normal routine and activities right away.