Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Abdomen

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the abdomen is a painless and completely safe radiological method, particularly important in diagnosing tumor changes in the abdominal area. It is used as a complementary imaging method to computed tomography (CT) for better differentiation of various types of masses and other abdominal organ diseases, and it is the first-choice method in cases where there is a contraindication for CT. During the scan, the patient is not exposed to harmful ionizing radiation, and the use of contrast agents further enhances the sensitivity of the examination.

What is MRI of the abdomen?

MRI of the abdomen is a non-invasive imaging technology that provides detailed images of the structures and organs within the abdominal cavity without harmful ionizing radiation. It visualizes:

• Liver
• Kidneys
• Adrenal glands
• Pancreas
• Spleen

This radiological method relies on a strong magnetic field and electromagnetic waves that affect the alignment of protons in the tissues relative to the magnetic field. As protons return to their original positions, energy is released, which generates signals used to create images of the abdominal organs on a computer. Different types of tissues in the MRI scan can be distinguished based on their magnetic properties and the strength of the signals they emit.

When is MRI of the abdomen needed?

An abdominal MRI is usually indicated after laboratory blood tests or other imaging methods (X-ray, ultrasound, CT) suggest a pathological condition in the abdominal organs. These are most commonly benign and malignant tumors, for which MRI is a sufficiently sensitive examination to confirm or rule out a diagnosis, as well as to differentiate types of masses, detect vascular abnormalities, and identify inflammatory changes in organs.

An abdominal MRI is also indicated when there are contraindications for other radiological methods, such as X-ray or CT with contrast (for example, due to an allergy to the contrast agent or kidney issues).

What does an abdominal MRI show?

Magnetic resonance imaging can be used to diagnose a range of abnormalities in abdominal organs:

• Liver: Cirrhosis, fibrosis, benign and malignant lesions, hepatitis, hemochromatosis, fatty liver.
• Pancreas: Benign and malignant lesions.
• Kidneys: Abnormalities in blood vessels (e.g., thrombosis, stenosis), tumors, cystic formations, inflammatory processes.
• Spleen: Cysts, tumors, abscesses, granulomas, hematomas, splenomegaly, and infarctions.
• Adrenal glands: Cysts, metastases, non-cancerous tumors, or adenomas.

MRI is particularly important in diagnosing malignant diseases, such as cancer of the pancreas, kidneys, and liver.

The use of gadolinium-based contrast agents provides a clearer view of internal structures and may be used depending on the indication.

Duration of an abdominal MRI

The scan lasts between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the indications. The entire procedure takes slightly longer if a contrast agent is used.

Preparation for MRI of the Abdomen

• Diet: Eat light, cooked food the day before the exam and avoid heavy, fatty foods and those that cause gas (e.g., carbonated drinks, dairy products, fruit, vegetables).
• Fasting: Do not eat for 4 hours before the scan.
• Contrast agent: If a contrast agent is indicated, bring recent results of urea and creatinine tests.
• Metal objects: Remove all metal items that could interact with the MRI magnetic field, including jewelry, piercings, glasses, mobile phones, keys, watches, credit cards, metal hair accessories, and removable dental prosthetics.
• Clothing: Wear clothes without metal parts (e.g., buttons, zippers) or prepare to change into provided attire.
• Anxiety: If you are anxious about enclosed spaces, you may take a mild sedative 15 to 30 minutes before the exam.

Risks of MRI

MRI of the abdomen is a completely safe imaging technique, with no exposure to harmful ionizing radiation.

However, the MRI device resembles a tunnel, and the confined space may trigger claustrophobia in some individuals. At Poliklinika Sinteza, we use the Siemens MAGNETOM® Aera MRI device, known for its open design (70 cm tunnel width and 145 cm length), which reduces the feeling of enclosure and provides a more comfortable experience.

Due to the use of a strong magnetic field, MRI is contraindicated for patients with a cardiac pacemaker or implanted cardioverter-defibrillator.

Although the effects of MRI on pregnancy are not scientifically proven, it is recommended only in strong medical indications for pregnant women.

The MRI procedure

• Pre-scan: Complete a health questionnaire and remove all metal items and clothing containing metal.
• Positioning: The radiologic staff will place you in a lying position inside the MRI tunnel. Special coils will be placed around the abdomen to capture magnetic signals and generate images.
• Contrast agent: If required, a cannula will be inserted into your arm for intravenous contrast administration. You may feel warmth throughout your body, a cooling sensation at the injection site, or a change in taste.
• Noise protection: MRI devices make loud noises during the scan, so you will be provided with ear protection to reduce the noise.
• Communication: You will remain alone in the room but can communicate with the staff via intercom. You will also have a small device to signal if you need to stop the scan. The staff may give you instructions via intercom during the scan, such as asking you to momentarily hold your breath.
• Movement: It is important to stay still during the scan to ensure high-quality images.
• After the scan, the cannula will be removed if a contrast agent was used.

Recovery from MRI of the abdomen

Most patients experience no need for recovery and can resume normal activities immediately. Some may feel drowsy or dizzy from lying still for the duration of the scan.

If a sedative was taken, wait until its effects wear off before driving. If a contrast agent was used, drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

If a contrast agent was used, it is recommended to drink larger amounts of fluids throughout the day.

Precautions

Because MRI uses a strong magnetic field, it is essential to inform the radiologic staff about any metal objects in or on your body, including:
cardiac pacemakers, metal clips, removable dental prosthetics, insulin pumps, stents or clips in blood vessels, neurostimulators, artificial heart valves, joint prostheses, cochlear implants, metal fragments or debris, tattoos or permanent makeup containing metals. Some of these items may not be contraindications, but confirmation from the operator is required.

If intravenous contrast is indicated, inform the staff of any kidney-related health issues.

Also, notify the staff if you cannot lie still for an extended period.

For a better patient experience:

• Comfortable MRI room design
• Soft patient support during the scan
• Noise reduction with special patient ear protection
• Audio instructions and support throughout the scan

Technical specifications:

• Tunnel diameter: 70 cm
• Tunnel length: 1.37 m

Price of MRI of the abdomen

For current pricing, please refer to our latest price list.

Service Location

Documents for patients

• Upute za pacijente za MR snimanje
• Pomoć pacijentima za opuštanje tijekom magnetske rezonance u uskom prostoru

Most frequently asked questions: