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Alternative Names
MRI, abdomen, MRI, abdominal, abdominal magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic
resonance imaging, abdominal, magnetic resonance imaging, abdomen
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Definition
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive imaging technique. 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 energy emitted from hydrogen atoms
in the body's cells. An individual is not exposed to harmful radiation during this test.
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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 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 healthcare provider
or a specialist in imaging techniques called a radiologist.
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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 medications
· 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 medication 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 for the duration of the test.
Commonly, a special substance called a contrast agent is administered prior to or during
the test. The contrast agent is used to enhance internal structures and improve image
quality. Typically, this material is injected into a vein in the arm.
The scanning process is painless. However, the part of the body being imaged may feel a
bit warm. This sensation is harmless and normal. Loud banging and knocking noises are
heard by the person 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 satisfactory, the person is allowed to leave.
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What is involved
in preparation for the test?
A person may be told not to eat or drink for six hours before the test. Specific
instructions from the imaging center or radiologist may differ, though, and should be
followed.
Some people find it helpful to bring earplugs or ask for a special set of headphones to
wear during the MRI. This muffles clicks and banging noises.
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What do the test results mean?
When the test is over, a person is usually asked to wait while the images are
examined. If necessary, more images may be done.
After a radiologist analyzes the test results, a report is sent to the person's healthcare
provider. The provider should then discuss the results with the person who had the test.
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