Urolift Device and Artefact on Multiparametric-Magnetic Resonance Imaging (mp-MRI) in Prostate

What is it about?

This study aimed to determine the degree of artifact caused by prostatic urethral lift (PUL) on multiparametric-magnetic resonance imaging (mp-MRI) and its impact on the diagnosis of prostate cancer. The study found that only the stainless steel urethral component of the PUL device generates artifact, which is confined to the posterior transition zone of the prostate. The nitinol capsular tab does not cause artifact in any MRI study phase. The study also found that the artifact did not affect the imaging of the anterior transition zone or peripheral zone, where the majority of prostate cancer occurs. The study concluded that the device is unlikely to obscure a diagnosis of prostate cancer and that in the rare circumstance where a lesion in the posterior transition zone is suspected, urologists should consider undertaking targeted prostate biopsies of this area.

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Why is it important?

This research is important because it defines the degree of artifact caused by prostatic urethral lift (PUL) on multiparametric-magnetic resonance imaging (mp-MRI) and determines the location, size of artifact, and if the device could potentially obscure a diagnosis of prostate cancer. This information is crucial for urologists who manage patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer simultaneously, as it provides insights into how the artifact generated by the PUL implant affects the imaging of the prostate. Key Takeaways: 1. The stainless steel urethral component of the PUL device causes artifact, which is confined to the posterior transition zone only. 2. PUL artifact occurs in an area of the prostate that has a very low incidence of a single focus of prostate cancer. 3. If there is concern for prostate cancer in the posterior transition zone, targeted biopsies can be conducted. 4. The Nitinol capsular tab of the PUL device does not cause artifact in any MRI study phase. 5. The majority of prostate cancer occurs in the peripheral zone and anterior transition zone, while only a small proportion occurs singularly within the posterior transition zone.