- What is MR enterography?
- Does the patient have to be prepared for the examination?
- How is the procedure performed?
- Is it necessary to use a contrast agent?
MR enterography is a non-invasive radiological method for the visualization of the small intestine. It can reveal changes in the context of chronic inflammatory disease, tumor growths, postoperative scars, etc.
It is advisable not to eat anything for 8 hours before the examination, as well as not to drink anything for 4 hours before the examination.
At our facility, you will receive 1.5 liters of liquid contrast medium 45 to 60 minutes before the investigation to drink it slowly until the procedure begins. In the meantime, we will also set up an intravenous line through which you will receive the intestinal wall muscles relaxant and contrast agent during the investigation.
Otherwise, general guidelines for MRI examination apply.
The radiolographer will place you in the appropriate position on the examination table and install a suitable coil. You will be provided with earphones for hearing protection as loud noises are generated during the investigation. You will enter the MRI scanner where you will stay for the duration of the process. You will hold a bell in your hand to use it if any problems occur during the procedure to alert the radiographer.
It is of particular importance that you remain completely still during the investigation as the movements impair the image quality!
The scanning time of examination and the time of preparation take approximately 2 hours.
Yes, an intravenous contrast agent is used in MR enterography.