Abdominal MRI - Overview & Technique

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the abdomen is a noninvasive method to create detailed pictures of the inside of the belly area. Unlike x-rays and computed tomographic (CT) scans, which use radiation, MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves. The MRI scanner contains the magnet. The magnetic field produced by an MRI is about 10 thousand times greater than the earth's. The magnetic field forces hydrogen atoms in the body to line up in a certain way (similar to how the needle on a compass moves when you hold it near a magnet). When radio waves are sent toward the lined-up hydrogen atoms, they bounce back, and a computer records the signal. Different types of tissues send back different signals. Single MRI images are called slices. The images can be stored on a computer or printed on film. One exam produces dozens or sometimes hundreds of images.

Abdominal MRI - Alternative Names and Explanations

abdominal scan, body mri, abdomen mri, abdominal mri, mri abdomen, kidney mri, abdominal scans, abdomal pelvic mri, abdominal mri scan, Abdominal MRI, MRI of the abdomen, Nuclear magnetic resonance - abdomen; NMR - abdomen; body mri, Magnetic resonance imaging - abdomen; MRI of the abdomen, MRI Abdomen w/o contrast CPT code 74181, MRI Abdomen with & w/o contrast CPT code 74183, abdominal mri

Abdominal MRI - Benefits versus Other Diagnostic Tests

• MRI contrast material is less likely to produce an allergic reaction than the iodine-based materials used for conventional x-rays and CT scanning.
• Exposure to radiation is avoided.
• MRI enables the detection of abnormalities that might be obscured by bone tissue with other imaging methods.

MRI of the Abdomen - Common Positive Findings

• Abnormal growths, such as tumors
• Size and shape of organs and blood vessels
• Blockage is found in the ducts draining the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas.
• Blockage in the tubes (ureters) that lead out of the kidneys
• Bleeding, abnormal collections of fluid, blockage in the flow of blood, or bulges in the blood vessels
• A bulge in the wall of a blood vessel (aneurysm)

MRI Abdominal - Images

MRI of the Abdomen - References, Links, and Additional Information

Schedule Your Abdominal MRI Today! 

• If you are looking for professional radiology services at your imaging site/center, call us at 1-800-626-8315 or contact us for a consultation. 

• If you live in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Mid-Wilshire and need to schedule a radiology examination such as a MRI, CT Scan, Ultrasound, X ray, or PET scan, contact us to schedule an appointment. 

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