MRI With Contrast

Posted by cmartin65 @cmartin65, Jun 20, 2020

Has anyone had a prostate 3T MRI without contrast? I'm scheduled for my first and I'm very concerned about the possible side effects of gadolinium that is used for contrast. Can a MRI without contrast show adequate detailed imagery for diagnostic purposes? Thanks in advance!
Chuck

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jimb1950 | @jimb1950 | Jun 21, 2020

You will be fine I’ve had 2 done no issues & need contrast to highlight the cancer.

dmadi61 | @dmadi61 | Jun 21, 2020

I had it as well. Should have no problem.

bruto1 | @bruto1 | Jun 21, 2020

Likewise. You’ll feel a little “heat” for a matter of seconds once the dye is injected. Otherwise, there should be no issues. That said, a very few individuals may have an allergic reaction to the dye, so check with your MD beforehand.

mrbill | @mrbill | Jun 21, 2020

The dye made me feel all warm and fuzzy for a few seconds.

semeon | @semeon | Jun 21, 2020

Hi Chuck! I have had a 3T MRI with contrasts done 6 times with no problems at all. I to had a concern as I have allergies and I am allergic to some contrast. However the one used for 3T MRI presented no problems at all.

bruto1 | @bruto1 | Jun 21, 2020

Chuck, Just recalled that my MRI at Mayo included insertion of a balloon into my anus to force greater separation between my prostate and my rectum to enhance imaging of my prostate. Frankly this was by far the most unpleasant part of the procedure. If mispositioned they will need to repeat, though unlikely. And, because you need to remain stationary during the MRI, possible discomfort from the balloon’s pressure can make this more difficult. All manageable. Just providing full disclosure.

dandl48 Dave | @dandl48 | Jun 21, 2020

@bruto1 FYI, When I had my MRI 2 weeks ago @ Mayo, I was sedated so I didn't feel the insertion of anything.

bruto1 | @bruto1 | Jun 21, 2020

Smart. They didn’t give me the option. Ouch!

mrbill | @mrbill | Jun 21, 2020

In reply to @bruto1 "Smart. They didn’t give me the option. Ouch!" + (show)

I must be thinking of another MRI. I didn't have one with balloon. Did have another type with contrast only.

semeon | @semeon | Jul 5, 2020

Yes I have had it 7 times 2 in Canada 5 at the Sperling Prostate Clinic in Florida. I am allergic to some contrast but have absolutely no problems. The key to the MRI disgnostics lie with the radiologists experience in reading the 3T MRI. It is critical to have a radiologist that has experience interpreting them. So ask the question. If they have limited experience it’s likely a waste of time using them and I would highly recommend Dr Sperling.

semeon | @semeon | Jul 5, 2020

In reply to @semeon "Yes I have had it 7 times 2 in Canada 5 at the Sperling Prostate Clinic..." + (show)

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Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Jul 5, 2020

In reply to @semeon "If you would like to communicate with me personally, private message me." + (show)

Hi @semeon, you'll notice that I removed your email address from your post. We recommend not sharing personal contact information in a public online forum. We don't want you to get unwanted spam as a result. Instead we recommend using the secure private message function to exchange contact information if you wish. However, I would like to point out that by sharing on the forum, your messages benefit many and we can all learn from each other.