Abdominal MRI Treatment and Procedure

Magnetic resonance imaging, or an MRI scan, is a relatively new medical procedure that is the one of the marvels of the development of technology over the last few decades. An Abdominal MRI is, essentially, a non evasive way of taking pictures of the internal parts of the body and, unlike x – rays, does not use radiation, but instead depends on powerful magnets combined with radio waves. The magnet contained in the MRI machine generates a magnetic field that is considered to be about 10 times more potent than the Earth’s. This powerful magnetic field forces the hydrogen atoms within the body to line up in a certain way that is rather similar to how the needle on a compass moves when it is held close to a magnet. Whenever a set of radio waves are sent in the direction of the hydrogen atoms, they are bounced back and a connected computer will record the signal. The entire concept works on the fact that different types of tissues send back different types of signals. A single MRI image is known as a slice and these images can either be stored on a computer or printed on a film – making them very convenient when it comes to compiling a patient’s medical reports.

Unless your doctor gives you any instructions, there is usually no special preparation required for Abdominal MRI preparation. Probably the only directive that your doctor is likely to give you would be to clean out your bowels – most likely with the help of an enema or laxative. You may also be asked to avoid eating or drinking any substance for about 4 to 6 hours before the commencement of the test. It is also very important to inform the doctor of any significant medical history as an MRI would not be possible if you have any metallic objects present in your body such as brain aneurism clips, inner ear implants, older versions of vascular stents or even any recently placed artificial joints. You may then be asked to wear a hospital gown or clothing that does not have any metallic fasteners as metal can cause inaccurate imaging. You will then be asked to lie on your back on a rather narrow table that slides into the MRI machine. Small devices known as coils will be placed around your abdomen and these are the primary contacts that send and receive the radio waves that are at the core of the test. The exam will cause no pain although some patients are known to suffer from anxiety when inside the scanner. In cases of anxiety attacks, the patient may even be administered a mild sedative.