Services

Abdominal and Pelvic MRI at Gateway Diagnostic Imaging

What Is an Abdominal and Pelvic MRI?

An abdominal and pelvic MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of your organs, tissues, and blood vessels in your abdomen and pelvis. Unlike CT scans or X-rays, MRI does not use ionizing radiation, making it an excellent choice for detailed soft tissue imaging.

During your abdominal and pelvic MRI scan, you’ll lie comfortably on a padded table that slides into the MRI machine. The entire exam typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the specific areas being examined and whether contrast material is needed.

Why Your Doctor Ordered an Abdominal and Pelvic MRI

Your physician may recommend an abdominal and pelvic MRI to diagnose, monitor, or rule out various conditions affecting your internal organs. This advanced imaging technique provides exceptional detail that helps your healthcare team make accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans.

Abdominal MRI Can Detect:

Liver Conditions

  • Liver tumors or masses
  • Fatty liver disease
  • Liver cirrhosis
  • Hepatitis complications

Kidney and Urinary System Issues

  • Kidney cysts or tumors
  • Urinary tract abnormalities
  • Bladder conditions

Digestive System Problems

  • Pancreatic disorders
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Abdominal masses or tumors

Blood Vessel Abnormalities

  • Aneurysms
  • Vascular malformations
  • Blood flow problems

Pelvic MRI Can Identify:

Women's Health Conditions

  • Uterine fibroids
  • Ovarian cysts or tumors
  • Endometriosis
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Cervical or uterine cancer

Men's Health Issues

  • Prostate conditions
  • Testicular abnormalities
  • Pelvic masses

General Pelvic Concerns

  • Pelvic pain causes
  • Bladder abnormalities
  • Rectal or anal conditions
  • Bone and joint problems (pelvis)

The Importance of Abdominal and Pelvic MRI

Superior Image Quality

MRI provides unmatched soft tissue contrast, allowing radiologists to distinguish between healthy and abnormal tissues with remarkable clarity. This detailed imaging helps detect conditions that might be missed by other imaging methods.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Many serious conditions, including cancers, are most treatable when caught early. Abdominal and pelvic MRI can identify problems in their earliest stages, often before symptoms appear, giving you and your doctor the best chance for successful treatment.

Accurate Diagnosis Reduces Anxiety

Unexplained symptoms can cause significant worry. A comprehensive MRI examination provides definitive answers, either confirming a diagnosis or ruling out serious conditions, helping reduce uncertainty and anxiety about your health.

Treatment Planning and Monitoring

For patients with known conditions, MRI helps doctors plan surgeries, monitor treatment effectiveness, and track disease progression over time. This ongoing monitoring ensures you receive the most appropriate care.

Radiation-Free Imaging

Unlike CT scans, MRI uses no ionizing radiation, making it safe for repeated examinations when necessary. This is especially important for younger patients or those requiring multiple follow-up scans.

How to Prepare for Your Abdominal and Pelvic MRI

Scheduling Considerations:

  • Allow 1-2 hours for your entire visit
  • Morning appointments may require overnight fasting
  • Inform us of any scheduling conflicts or concerns

Medical Information to Provide:

  • Complete list of current medications
  • Previous surgeries or medical procedures
  • Known allergies, especially to contrast materials
  • Pregnancy status (if applicable)
  • History of kidney problems

Insurance and Documentation:

  • Bring your insurance card and photo ID
  • Arrive 15 minutes early for registration
  • Bring your doctor’s order or referral

What to Wear:

  • Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes without metal
  • Avoid clothing with zippers, snaps, or metallic threads
  • Sports bras without underwire are preferred
  • We provide hospital gowns if needed

Safety Screening

Metal Implants and Devices

Our team will review your medical history for any implanted devices or metal objects, including:

  • Pacemakers or defibrillators
  • Cochlear implants
  • Joint replacements
  • Surgical clips or screws
  • IUDs or contraceptive implants

Contrast Material Preparation

If your exam requires contrast material (gadolinium), we’ll review:

  • Kidney function test results
  • Previous reactions to contrast
  • Current medications that might interact
  • Pregnancy status

What to Expect During Your MRI

Arrival and Check-In

When you arrive at Gateway Diagnostic Imaging, our friendly staff will guide you through the registration process. You’ll complete safety questionnaires and have the opportunity to ask questions about your exam.

The Scanning Process

You’ll lie on a comfortable padded table that moves into the MRI scanner. The machine makes various knocking and buzzing sounds during the scan – this is completely normal. Our technologist will be in constant communication with you throughout the scan.

After Your Scan

Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after their MRI. If you receive contrast material, you’ll be monitored briefly before leaving. Your images will be reviewed by board-certified subspecialized radiologists, and results will be sent to you and your referring physician.

Why Choose Gateway Diagnostic Imaging?

Advanced Technology

Our state-of-the-art MRI equipment provides the highest quality images while ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the examination process.

Expert Radiologists

Board-certified radiologists specialized in abdominal and pelvic imaging, bring years of experience and expertise to every scan interpretation.

Patient-Centered Care

We prioritize your comfort, safety, and understanding throughout your imaging experience. Our compassionate team is here to answer questions and address concerns.

Convenient Scheduling

We offer flexible scheduling options, including early morning, evening and weekend appointments, to accommodate your busy lifestyle.

FAQs

How long does the scan take?

Most abdominal and pelvic MRI scans take 30-60 minutes, depending on the specific areas being examined and whether contrast is used.

Is MRI safe?

Yes, MRI is very safe. It uses magnetic fields and radio waves – no radiation. However, certain metal implants may not be compatible with MRI.

Will I feel claustrophobic?

Our MRI machines are designed with patient comfort in mind. If you’re concerned about claustrophobia, please discuss this with our team before your appointment.

Do I need someone to drive me home?

Most patients can drive themselves home after an MRI.

Ready to Get Started?

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