MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) abdomen is an imaging procedure that produces detailed images of the abdominal organs. This scan includes the organs such as the Liver, Gallbladder, Pancreas, Stomach, Intestines, Kidneys, and Reproductive organs to detect abnormalities and underlying problems. This scanning procedure helps the doctor in the diagnosis of a variety of issues related to the abdomen such as abnormal growth, vascular problems, cirrhosis, cancer, etc.
It is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses a strong magnet, radio waves, and a computer system to look at the internal structures of the abdomen by creating a detailed picture of the abdomen area and surrounding tissues.
Why is MRI Abdomen Requested?
MRI abdomen helps the doctor in detecting an abnormality that is causing a particular symptom and provides better and more detailed information about the problem.
Differentiating the benign liver lesions from malignant lesions and normal tissues from pathologic tissues.
- The doctor recommends this scan even when the result of the CT scan abdomen is unclear.
- Detect acute or chronic kidney failure, abdominal lymph nodes, ovarian cancer, pancreas cancer, prostate cancer, liver enlargement, cirrhosis of the liver, spleen enlargement, gallstones, bile duct stone, kidney stone, etc.
MRI Abdomen is Also Ordered, in the Case of Persistent Indications Related to the Abdomen and Its Associated Organs Such As:
- Pain while urination
- Tenderness, pain, and discomfort
- Abnormal bowel movements
- Appetite problem
- Heaviness in the abdomen
- Swelling in the abdominal region
- Lump in the abdominal region
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloody urine
- Reduced flow of urine
How Do I Prepare for an MRI Abdomen?
You have to follow the instruction of the doctor before the scanning procedure to prepare for an effective outcome.
- Remove all types of metal wearables. Be it jewelry, hair pins, removable dentures, spectacles, etc. Before the scan.
- Wear the hospital gown or loose clothes before the scan.
- Take your regular medicines and diet, unless your doctor doesn’t instruct you to stop.
- Notify the doctor about the allergic reaction or any medical conditions you are suffering from.
- Women must tell their doctor if they are pregnant or if there are any chances of pregnancy.
- Notify the doctor if you have an anxiety issue
- Notify the doctor if you are claustrophobic
- In the case of an MRI Abdomen with contrast, you must fast for 4-6 hours before the test.
What is the Procedure for MRI Abdomen?
Procedure for MRI Abdomen without contrast
- You need to lie down on the MRI table with closed eyes.
- To keep your body still during the procedure, the technologist may use straps. Because any movement can affect the quality of the images.
- Move the examination table into an MRI machine for scanning.
- While the procedure is going on, the technologist will remain in another room to operate the scanner and generate the pictures.
- Once the images will be generated, the scanning procedure will be over.
Risks of MRI Abdomen
MRI Abdomen involves minimal risks. Some implants are not Magnetic field-friendly, So the use of a strong magnetic field sometime causes damage to the pacemaker and other implants.
In the case of an MRI Abdomen with contrast, due to contrast dye, you may experience an allergic reaction
How Much Time Does MRI Abdomen Take?
Generally, the complete procedure of an MRI abdomen takes about 30 to 90 minutes. But in the case of contrast media (MRI Abdomen with contrast), it may take around 2 hours.
What is the Cost of an MRI Abdomen?
The cost of an MRI Abdomen depends on the technology used by the diagnostic center. Whether it’s a 3 Tesla MRI or a 1.5 Tesla MRI. Apart from the technology, it also depends on the location and type of scan whether it’s without contrast or with contrast. But the average cost of an MRI Abdomen in Delhi is Rs.16,000.
Conclusion
MRI Abdomen scan is the best imaging procedure that is used for a variety of purposes. But it is generally recommended when the doctor suspects there is something wrong in the abdominal area but the abnormalities are not determined through the physical examination or other imaging procedures. This imaging technique doesn’t use any radiation, so it is always considered safe over other imaging techniques. The result of the procedure helps the doctor in deciding the treatment plan in an effective way.