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MRI scans when you have an ICD

User
Posted 17 Mar 2025 at 19:34

Hello

I'm wondering if anyone else has has problems with arranging an MRI scan when they have an ICD (Implantable cardioverter defibrillator) fitted? The hospital that first investigated my prostate cancer (Queen Mary's at Roehampton) insisted that it wasn't possible to have an MRI if you have an ICD and sent me straight for a biopsy (G3+4) in September 2024. I was then referred to UCL to investigate whether I was suitable for Focal Treatment. They discovered that I could in fact have an MRI - at Barts, because they have the facility to deactivate the ICD prior to the scan - but unfortunately they didn't seem to know that having an MRI just a few weeks after a biopsy was a waste of time because the pictures will be of a prosate that hasn't recovered from the intrusive procedure. After much confusion at UCL (their nursing team haven't responded to any of my requests for support) I had a second MRI  last week and have a call with the consultant planned for this Wedneday, 19th March - 7 months after my diagnosis- at which he's hopefully going to suggest a treatment plan. I'm hoping it will be one of the Focal Treatments. I understand that UCL is one of the few centres that offer Focal - does anyone know where else they are being carried out in the NHS please? I'm 71 years old, otherwise fit and healthy, and really don't want to face a radical prostatectomy with a long recovery period. Thanks

User
Posted 17 Mar 2025 at 22:47

I've heard UCLH say they have the largest focal therapy department in the world.

Imperial (and their off-shoot at Charring Cross) is also main focal centre.

There are a number of other places which just do one of the focal therapies.

User
Posted 19 Mar 2025 at 12:03
Thanks Andy 62. That's useful info. I now understand that UCLH and Imperial have different criteria for deciding whether and individual is suitable for Focal. It seems to be a bit of a lottery.
User
Posted 19 Mar 2025 at 17:45

I had also heard NHS treatment has a tighter critera than if you are private.

 
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