Download MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

St. Joseph Hospital
Department of Radiology
What is an Abdomen, Abdomen MRA, Pelvis, Pelvis MRA, MRCP MRI Scan?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive, usually painless medical test that
helps doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions. MRI uses a powerful magnetic
field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues,
bone and virtually all other internal body structures. MRI does not use ionizing radiation
(X-rays).
Detailed MRI images allow doctors to better evaluate parts of the body and certain
diseases. Images produced by X-rays, ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) might
not be as detailed as the MRI images.
MRI is increasingly used to evaluate the liver, spleen, kidneys, gall bladder and
pancreas. Typical reasons for a doctor to order an MRI of the abdomen include history
of cancer, pain, loss of organ function, bile duct stone or obstruction, bleeding, cirrhosis
of the liver or hepatitis. MRI of the abdomen can also help detect enlarged lymph nodes,
metastatic disease (disease that has spread to other areas of the body), tumors and
other lesions, aneurysms and structural abnormalities.
New MRI equipment (coils) now available greatly improves imaging in the pelvis. In
women, MRI of the pelvis is increasingly used to evaluate the uterus, cervix, ovaries,
bladder, fetus and placenta. In men, MRI of the pelvis is increasingly used to evaluate
the prostate, bladder, penis and scrotum. Typical reasons for a doctor to order an MRI
of the pelvis include cancer staging, pain, palpable masses and pregnancy
complications. MRI of the pelvis can also help detect enlarged lymph nodes, fibroids,
ovarian masses, prostate cancer staging, metastatic disease (disease that has spread
to other areas of the body), testicular cancer and structural abnormalities.
Before your scan
You may not eat for 4 hours prior to your scan.
You may be asked to have some lab work drawn before your scan.
Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment time.
Please register at the St. Joseph Hospital Outpatient Pavilion on the first floor
Please let the technologist know if you are or may be pregnant or
if you have a cardiac pacemaker.
During your scan
The technologist will ask you to fill out an MRI screening questionnaire to identify any
metal (devices, implants) inside your body from surgery or shrapnel and for metal
shavings in your eyes. Many devices, despite containing metal, can be safely imaged.
You will be asked to remove your watch, jewelry or garments that have metal closures
from the part of your body being imaged. Your belongings will be locked in a locker.
You will be asked to put on a gown. Anyone coming with you into the MRI room must
also be screened as above.
You will be asked to lie on a table. You will hear a loud knocking sound during your
scan. The knocking sound is a result of the coils inside the scanner that are responding
to different fields. The technologist will provide earplugs or music to you during this time.
You will be in constant communication with the technologist.
The part of your body being scanned is placed in a special coil that increases the quality
of the image. A special contrast may be injected into the vein in your arm. Contrast
material, or contrast dye, is a substance used to make specific organs, blood vessels, or
types of tissue (such as tumors) more visible on the MRI pictures.
The table will move into the scanner. You need to hold still for the scan. The
technologist may ask you to hold your breath during the scan.
After your scan
After the scan is complete the technologist will check the images to make sure no other
pictures are needed. If no other pictures are needed, the scan is complete and you may
leave.
The radiologist will review your scan later that day. A report will then be sent to the
doctor who ordered your scan within one to two business days.
Your doctor will discuss the scan results with you during a follow-up appointment
Thank you
We are honored that you have selected St. Joseph Hospital to serve your healthcare
needs.