Some medical conditions require that your doctor use imaging procedures in order to diagnose them and determine the best treatment path. Abdominal MRI imaging is one of those procedures, and it’s used when doctors are trying to diagnose abnormal conditions in the abdominal area that affect the organs and tissues located there. Here’s everything you need to know about abdominal MRI in Santa Fe, NM, including why it-\’s used, how it works, who needs this procedure, and what kind of results you can expect from it.
What is an abdominal MRI?
An abdominal MRI is a type of noninvasive test that uses magnets and radio waves to create images of the inside of the body. The magnets and radio waves create cross-sectional images of the abdomen, which allows doctors to check for abnormalities in the tissues and organs without requiring surgery or other invasive procedures.
What are the benefits of an abdominal MRI?
An abdominal MRI is a type of noninvasive test that uses magnets and radio waves to create images of the inside of the body. The magnets and radio waves create cross-sectional images of the abdomen, which allows doctors to check for abnormalities in the tissues and organs without invasive surgery. An abdominal MRI is an excellent diagnostic tool for identifying conditions such as an enlarged spleen or liver, appendicitis, gallstones, tumors, and more.
How do I prepare for an abdominal MRI?
-Do not eat or drink anything for four hours before the exam.
-Bring a bag of medications with you.
-Remove all metal objects from your body, including jewelry and hair clips.
What can I expect during an abdominal MRI?
MRI is a type of noninvasive test that uses magnets and radio waves to create images of the inside of the body. The magnets and radio waves create cross-sectional images of the abdomen, which allows doctors to check for abnormalities in the tissues and organs without using any radiation.
The patient will be scanned from head to toe, then from the head down. Patients have a full body scan, which can take up to 45 minutes.
How will I receive my results?
The results of your abdominal MRI will be sent to the doctor who ordered the test. In some cases, your results may be shared with other healthcare providers involved in your care. If you need help understanding the results of your test, talk with your doctor or a member of the medical staff.
Are there any risks associated with an abdominal MRI?
The most common risks associated with an abdominal MRI are claustrophobia, infection, and allergic reaction to the contrast dye. The risk of claustrophobia can be minimized by telling the patient what they need to do before the test begins. For example, they may ask them not to wear clothing made of metal or anything that might disrupt the magnetic field. The risk of infection can be reduced by using disposable gloves and sterile needles.