Clinical/methodical issue: A present goal is to improve detection and staging of prostate cancer using innovative imaging technology such as PET/MRI.
Standard radiological methods: The modality of choice for detection of prostate cancer is multiparametric MRI. Furthermore, PET/CT is used, in particular, for the detection and staging of distant metastases and recurrent disease. For assessment of bone metastases, the method most commonly used is bone scintigraphy.
Methodical innovations: The development of a simultaneous hybrid PET/MRI system is the last great "fusion" of the known cross-sectional image modalities. In addition, synthesis of new, innovative tracers such as (18)F-FACBC or (68)Ga-PSMA allows more specific detection of prostate cancer.
Performance: Hybrid PET/MRI imaging has the potential to replace conventional imaging techniques in the future.
Achievements: The method is just starting the broad application. Clinical studies must be expanded in order to substantiate the additional value of the method.
Practical recommendations: Currently, there is still a low distribution situation, since it is a new and cost-intensive method. At the same time, there is still no consistent solution for reimbursement. The importance in practice first rises by clarifying the payment situation and further demonstration of the method's benefit by larger studies.