A pelvic MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is an imaging technique that uses a powerful magnet, radio waves and a computer to create detailed images of the pelvis. It provides valuable information about the pelvic structures and organs.
MRI can assist your doctor in diagnosing or monitoring various conditions throughout the pelvis including, but not limited to:
Abnormalities of the male and female genitourinary and reproductive systems
Suspected or known abnormalities of the bones and nerves of the pelvis (lumbosacral plexus)
Investigation of abnormalities of blood vessels in the pelvis
A general assessment of pelvic contents may be undertaken as indicated by your referring Doctor.
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 6 hours prior to your pelvic MRI.
Not all pelvis 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. Please email/SMS a copy of your MRI request form as soon as possible so we may provide the most accurate information regarding your booking.
Unless you are told otherwise, continue to take any regular medications.
The MRI scanners at North Shore Radiology are all ‘wide-bore’ scanners, and the vast majority of patients do not experience any problems with claustrophobia. If you suffer from moderate to severe claustrophobia, please discuss this with our bookings staff.
MRI scans of the pelvis will generally take 30-60 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 pelvis. The scan table will move into the scanner so your pelvis 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) and/or a muscle relaxant (Buscopan) as part of your MRI scan. This helps to provide 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 may be asked to hold your breath for some scans.
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.
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