An abdominal MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is an imaging technique that uses a powerful magnet, radio waves and a computer to create detailed images of the abdomen. It provides valuable information about the abdominal structures and organs.
MRI can assist your Doctor in diagnosing or monitoring various conditions throughout the abdomen including, but not limited to:
Abnormalities in the liver, pancreas and bile ducts.
Suspected or known abnormalities related to the kidneys.
Investigation of abnormalities of blood vessels in the abdomen.
A general assessment of abdominal contents may be undertaken as indicated by your referring Doctor.
A copy of your request is required prior to offering you an appointment. Once received, we will contact you to make a booking – you will be asked a series of safety questions at the time of booking to ascertain your eligibility to undergo MRI.
It is very important to answer these questions completely and accurately. Some patients with implanted devices (example pacemaker, cochlear implant) may be unsafe to have an MRI scan. Other patients may have implants for which we may require additional information to assess for MRI compatibility.
You will be asked to fast (nothing to eat or drink) for 4 hours prior to your abdominal MRI.
Not all abdominal MRI scans attract a Medicare rebate. You will be informed at the time of booking of any out of pocket costs related to your scan. Unless you are told otherwise, continue to take any regular medications.
MRI scans of the abdomen will usually take approximately 30 minutes.
Upon arrival, you’ll be asked to complete a detailed MRI Safety questionnaire which will be verbally checked by the technician undertaking your scan. This is to ensure your safety in the MRI scanner.
You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and to remove all metal (wedding rings made from precious metals may remain on).
You will be positioned on your back on the MRI scan table and a piece of equipment will be placed on top of your abdomen. The scan table will move into the scanner so your abdomen will be in the centre of the scanner. The MRI scanner is well lit, open at both ends and a fan circulates cool air during the scan.
It may be necessary to administer a contrast agent or dye (Gadolinium) as part of your MRI scan. This provides additional information to assist the doctor with diagnosing or monitoring your condition. The contrast is given via a small cannula which will be placed in a vein in your arm.
The MRI scanner makes a series of loud tapping noises, and you will be provided with headphones to reduce the noise. You will be asked to hold your breath on several occasions to assist with obtaining clear images of the abdomen.
You will be provided with an emergency buzzer, and be able to contact the technician at any time during the scan if required.
There are no restrictions on your activities following your MRI scan. A detailed report will be produced by one of our experienced radiologists and sent to your referring doctor, generally within 48 hours. You will be provided with a link to access your images via the mynsr app approximately 4 hours after your scan. Please ask our friendly reception staff for assistance with this if required.
Find your imaging service
