Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the abdomen can give your doctor information about your liver, pancreas and kidneys and other structures in the belly.
Because there is no ionizing radiation used in an MRI exam, Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a very popular tool in the medical community. In addition, MRI is a totally painless exam and has no known side effects.
When would I get a MRI of the Abdomen?
Your medical provider may recommend an MRI of the abdomen in order evaluate organs such as the:
- liver
- biliary tract
- kidneys
- spleen
- bowel
- pancreas
- adrenal glands.
Patients suffering from abdominal pain, abnormal organ function or lack of blood flow may be asked to undergo an abdominal MRI test.
What Will I Experience During an MRI of the Abdomen?
During an MRI of the abdomen, you will lie comfortably on the scanning table while detailed images of your abdominal organs are captured. Because the abdomen naturally moves with breathing, you may be asked to briefly hold your breath at certain points to ensure the clearest possible images.
The exam itself is painless. You will need to remain still during imaging sequences, and you may hear rhythmic knocking or humming sounds as the scanner operates. These sounds are completely normal and indicate the machine is capturing diagnostic data.
Depending on your physician’s order, contrast material may be administered through a small IV to enhance visualization of organs such as the liver, pancreas, kidneys, or blood vessels. The full MRI of the abdomen typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes. Throughout the exam, you will be able to communicate with the technologist at any time, and ear protection or music is usually provided for comfort.
