Abdominal MRI

Sheet metal workers, or those with similar potential exposure to small metal fragments, will first be screened for metal shards within the eyes with X-rays of the skull. The patient will be asked to sign a consent form confirming that none of the above issues apply before the study will be performed.

A hospital gown may be recommended, or the patient may be allowed to wear clothing without metal fasteners.

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For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following:

Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

There is no pain. You cannot feel the magnetic field and radio waves. The primary possible discomfort is the claustrophobic feeling that some experience from being inside the scanner. The table may be hard or cold, but you can request a blanket or pillow.

The machine produces loud thumping and humming noises during normal operation. Ear plugs are usually given to reduce the noise. A technologist observes the entire procedure and may be spoken to through an intercom in the scanner. Some MRI scanners are equipped with televisions and special headphones to help time pass.

Excessive movement can blur MRI images and cause certain artifacts. If the patient has difficulty lying still or is very anxious, an oral or intravenous sedative may be given. There is no recovery time, unless sedation was necessary. After an MRI scan, you can resume normal diet, activity, and medications.

Why the test is performed:

MRI provides detailed pictures of soft tissues without obstruction by bone. It is often used to clarify findings from previous X-ray studies or CT scans. It can show or demonstrate wide areas of the abdomen from multiple viewpoints.

MRI can evaluate certain organ functions. It clearly shows lymph nodes and blood vessels, and is a noninvasive imaging method for evaluation of blood flow.

MRI may be used in diagnosing abnormal growths. It can distinguish tumors from normal tissues and can provide information for the staging (determination of the size, extent, and spread) of abdominal tumors. MRI is sometimes used to avoid the dangers of angiography, repeated exposure to radiation, or for patients who cannot receive iodinated contrast dye.