Abdominal MRI
Alternate Names : MRI, Abdomen, MRI, Abdominal, Abdominal Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Abdominal, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Abdomen
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, also called
MRI,
is a noninvasive imaging technique. Somewhat like an x-ray, it is used to view organs, soft tissue,
bone, and other internal body structures. In an abdominal MRI, the
person's body is exposed to radio waves while in a magnetic field.
Cross-sectional pictures of the abdomen are produced by the energy given off
from hydrogen atoms in the body's cells. A person is not exposed to
harmful radiation during this test.
Who is a candidate for the test?
An abdominal MRI may be done to check organs and
other tissues in the abdomen, including the:
liver
spleen
pancreas
kidneys
bladder
prostate
reproductive organs
adrenal glands
abdominal blood vessels
This test may be recommended:
to look for benign or cancerous tumors or lesions
to look for abnormal or damaged organs and other tissues
to see how tumors are responding to treatment
to clarify the results of other imaging tests, such as ultrasound or
abdominal CT scans
if other imaging tests or certain contrast agents should not be used
People who have certain medical devices and pieces of
metal, such as pins or screws in bones or other implants, may not be
able to have an MRI.
Metal interferes with the magnetic field. Tattoos may cause problems,
too. And MRI is not usually done during pregnancy.
All of these issues should be discussed with the person's doctor or a
specialist in imaging techniques called a radiologist.
How is the test performed?
Before the test, the doctor will ask if the person:
has any drug allergies or history of allergic reaction to medicines
is allergic to shellfish, or foods with added iodine such as table salt
has experienced claustrophobia, or anxiety in enclosed spaces. If
this is a problem, mild sedating medicine may be given.
A woman will also be asked if she might be pregnant.
As the test begins, the person lies on a flat platform.
The platform then slides into a doughnut-shaped magnet where the
scanning takes place. To prevent image distortion on the final images,
the person must lie very still during the entire test.
Most often, a special dye called a contrast agent
is given prior to or during the test. The contrast agent is used to enhance
internal structures and improve image quality. Most often, this dye
is injected into a vein in the arm.
The scanning process is painless. However, the part
of the body being scanned may feel a bit warm. This feeling is harmless
and to be expected. The person hears loud banging and knocking noises during
many stages of the exam. Earplugs are provided for people who find
the noises disturbing.
After the test, the person is asked to wait until the
images are viewed to see if more images are needed. If the pictures
look OK, the person can leave.
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