Abdominal MRI

An MRI of the abdomen that images organs such as the liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys and adrenal glands in detail, without ionising radiation. It is used to characterise findings seen on other scans and to investigate abdominal symptoms. At Neoscan it is performed on a 1.5T scanner with the Ambient Experience environment to ease anxiety during the longer abdominal sequences, and reported by radiology specialists. No referral is required, and it can be combined with MRCP imaging of the bile ducts.

Abdominal MRI produces detailed, high-contrast images of the soft-tissue organs of the upper abdomen — including the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys and adrenal glands — without using ionising radiation. It is often requested to characterise a finding first seen on ultrasound or CT, to investigate abdominal pain or abnormal blood results, or to monitor a previously identified condition over time, because it can distinguish tissue types and detect subtle changes particularly well. At Neoscan the study is performed on a Philips Ingenia Prodiva 1.5T scanner with the in-bore Ambient Experience environment, where you can select lighting, music and projected imagery to make the examination more comfortable — helpful given that abdominal protocols involve a number of sequences and several breath-holds. You lie on your back and follow the radiographer's breathing instructions, with the whole examination usually taking around 30 to 45 minutes; ear protection is provided. Contrast is frequently helpful for abdominal questions and is offered as a priced option, given through a small cannula in the arm. The scan can also be combined with magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) to image the bile and pancreatic ducts in the same visit at a reduced combined price. Images are reviewed and reported by the centre's radiology specialists, with a standard written report in about ten working days and a 48-hour expedited option on request. Findings are intended to support your treating clinician's assessment. You may be asked not to eat for a few hours beforehand, and you should tell the team about any implants, a pacemaker, pregnancy or previous contrast reactions before booking.