Is Magnetic Resonance Imaging-targeted Biopsy Now the Standard of Care? (European Urology)

Over the past 8-10yr, multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) has changed the diagnostic paradigm for prostate cancer. Before this time, MRI was used mainly as an anatomical staging tool and was most useful for judging the extent of locally advanced disease. MR spectroscopy was available but was a difficult and expensive technique and was highly user-dependent. During this time, 1.5-T magnets were the predominant platform available and image quality for a small organ such as the prostate was difficult to standardise; endorectal coils were also frequently used, which added to the cost and to patient discomfort.