Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnets to detect radiofrequency signals as they travel through the body. Using advanced computer software, these radiofrequency signals are translated into detailed digital visualizations of internal body parts, like the prostate gland.

How do we diagnose prostate cancer?

For many years, the standard method of diagnosing prostate cancer was fairly crude. The first step required a primary care physician to perform a digital rectal exam and prostate specific antigen (PSA) test on the patient. If a nodule was detected, or if PSA was greater than 4, the patient was referred to an urologist. A transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) biopsy was performed by the urologist; 8 to 12 needles were inserted into the prostate gland in a relatively blind fashion.