MRI of the pelvic organs examination. MRI of the pelvis. Everything you need to know. How to prepare for the examination

MRI of the pelvic organs is one of the most modern and informative methods of hardware research. The procedure is absolutely painless and does not involve any incisions on the body. In women, diagnostics allows assessing the condition of the uterus with appendages, bladder, rectum, soft tissues, bone structures, blood vessels and lymph nodes. In men, tomography reveals pathologies of the prostate gland, scrotum, and rectum. To obtain the most accurate results and prevent side effects, you should begin preparing for the procedure several days in advance.

Operating principle of MRI

The abbreviation MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. The diagnosis is based on the phenomenon of the same name - nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) - a physical phenomenon of atomic nuclei, in which some atoms begin to absorb or emit electromagnetic waves when placed in a magnetic field.

The first tomograph was invented in 1973. However, modern devices are very different from those of the past. Now the equipment works thanks to the interaction of a magnetic field and radio waves. A table with a patient is placed in the tunnel pipe. The design is not static, so that it is possible to take pictures from different angles and sections. The device supports axial, frontal and sagittal projections.

The surveyed area is surrounded by sensors that read the signal transmitted by hydrogen nuclei. The received data is processed on a computer and transformed into an image.

If necessary, an MRI with contrast is performed. The patient is administered a special drug, the effect of which increases the sensitivity of the equipment to electromagnetic waves. The method allows you to more accurately visualize the movement of blood through the vessels, assess the temperature of tissues and their layer-by-layer structure.

Which MRI machine is better?

Open MRI machine

The key element of the tomograph is a magnet. The power of the equipment and the accuracy of the research depend on it. The following classification has been introduced in science:

resistive magnets;
permanent magnets;
superconducting magnets.

Resistive ones are installed in open tomographs, but are expensive for clinics and are therefore rarely used. Permanent magnets are more common. They are used in both open and closed MRI machines and are relatively inexpensive. Superconducting magnets are the latest generation and have a power of up to 4 Tesla. Their disadvantage is their high cost.

The power of tomographs is measured in Tesla (T). The unit is named after its discoverer Nikola Tesla.

Based on the type of design, devices are divided into open and closed. More and more clinics are choosing the former, as they allow diagnostics for people with claustrophobia, the elderly, and children.

The production of equipment for magnetic resonance imaging is carried out by two organizations - Siemens and Philips. They use the latest scanning technologies to create equipment. The devices operate silently, without technical failures. Meet all safety standards. The control system is automated and therefore very simple.

Advantages of the method

Magnetic resonance diagnostics is used to scan all tissues of the body: bone, connective, nerve, muscle, cartilage, etc. The main advantages of the method:

spatial coding of information;
high image quality;
high sensitivity;
accuracy, information content;
absence of ionizing radiation.

Unlike other X-ray types of examination, MRI can be performed an unlimited number of times without harm to health. In addition, the procedure provides information about even the smallest particles of the body - less than 1 cm in size. This increases the likelihood of detecting oncology, a cyst or other foreign body in the early stages and preventing the development of pathology.

Indications and contraindications for pelvic MRI

An MRI examination of the pelvis is carried out to confirm or refute the diagnosis, after surgery, to monitor the effectiveness of treatment. Indications for tomography in women:

benign and malignant formations in the area of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder;
tumor formations on the walls of the rectum and surrounding tissues;
inflammatory processes;
polyps, cysts;
endometriosis;
exacerbation of current diseases (ovarian apoplexy, etc.);
mechanical damage to the internal organs of the pelvis;
developmental anomalies of the genitourinary system;
metastases in bone structures;
infertility;
atypical bloody discharge;
pain in the lower abdomen.

In obstetric practice, MRI is used as a secondary research method after ultrasound. It is used to clarify the diagnosis or obtain a more detailed picture of the condition of the tissues.

Men are recommended to undergo MRI diagnostics in the following cases:

injuries and bruises of the abdomen, genitals;
pain in the spine, sacrum;
enuresis;
erectile dysfunction;
suspicion of oncology;
vascular pathologies;
infections;
complications after surgery.

Be sure to examine the pelvic area if acute pain occurs. They can be symptoms of salt deposits in the kidneys and ducts, inflammatory processes of the genitourinary system, and anomalies.

Contraindications to MRI of the pelvis are weight over 130 kg and the presence of metal objects in the body: prostheses, pacemakers, tattoos based on ferromagnetic paint, implants.

Preparing for an MRI of the pelvis

A mandatory criterion when preparing for pelvic MRI in men and women is a full bladder. An hour before the procedure, the patient should drink 1 liter of clean water. This is necessary to push the intestines out of the pelvic cavity and get an objective picture of the condition of the internal organs.

Women should do the procedure in the first phase of the menstrual cycle (from 7 to 12 days), that is, immediately after the critical days. During menopause, you can do an MRI any day.
For the examination, wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement and does not contain metal elements. A long nightgown, tunic or cotton dress is best. Men can wear a T-shirt and shorts.
If your clothes have pockets, you need to remove all items that react to a magnetic field from them: credit cards, jewelry, coins, gadgets, removable dentures.
If you have claustrophobia, you should choose a center with an open tomograph or ask to undergo an examination under anesthesia.
Having data on previous examinations, take them with you and provide them to the doctor, who will interpret the current images.
MRI for young children (up to 5 years) is performed under general anesthesia in the presence of an anesthesiologist. Calm and assiduous preschoolers are examined like adults, but in the presence of their parents.

The diet should be monitored especially carefully during preparation. Before an MRI of the pelvis, you can eat all foods except black bread, cheese, milk, soy products and excessive amounts of vegetables and fruits. They promote gas formation in the stomach, which negatively affects the diagnostic result. Do not eat or drink 4 hours before visiting the clinic. The night before, you can do a cleansing enema and take activated charcoal.

Types of MRI and technique

The principle of diagnostics is the same for all methods. The procedure takes place in stages:

The patient lies on the table and his limbs are secured with straps.
The table is placed in the tomograph cylinder.
The device scans the specified area for 30 minutes. At this time, the doctor gives instructions to hold your breath, relax, etc.
The images are printed on a special film and interpreted by a radiologist.

In addition to standard MRI, there is tomography with contrast. The study requires the injection of a contrast agent into the patient's blood. The method is actively used to detect malignant tumors, metastases and the spread of pathology to neighboring tissues and organs.

A contraindication to MRI with contrast is intolerance to the dye. To determine the reaction, a test is performed before the procedure.

Possible risks and side effects of the study

Failure to follow the rules for preparing for a magnetic resonance examination can result in equipment failure or side effects for the body. You cannot come for diagnostics with a full stomach or while intoxicated. In this state, it is difficult to remain calm throughout the entire procedure, and any movements will distort the picture in the pictures. It is prohibited to administer sedatives and contrast agents to a patient who is intoxicated.

Also at risk:

pregnant women;
patients with renal failure;
people who have direct contraindications for diagnosis;
allergy sufferers to iodine-containing drugs.

If the doctor has agreed to the diagnosis, do not worry. The harm from MRI has been greatly exaggerated. All inconveniences during the procedure are compensated by reliable results and the health benefits of the information received.

Decoding the results

The patient receives images and a doctor’s report within 40-60 minutes after undergoing an MRI examination. The interpretation is performed by a qualified radiologist. The images themselves are provided in printed form. If desired, the results can be sent to the patient by e-mail or provided on any electronic medium - disk, flash card.

Common pathologies that pelvic MRI shows in women:

ovarian cancer;
cervical cancer;
obstruction of the fallopian tubes;
inflammation of the ovaries, cystic growths;
uterine fibroids;
endometriosis.

In men, diagnostics can detect cancer of the prostate, bladder and testicles.

The correct diagnosis depends on the level of training of the doctor and the quality of the equipment. High-field and ultra-high-field tomograph models scan pathology more accurately and quickly.

Approximate cost of the procedure

The cost of the service directly depends on the equipment of the clinic

The cost of MRI diagnostics in Moscow and the region varies from 4,500 to 15,000 rubles. In provincial cities remote from the center of the country, this amount may be 1.5-2 times lower. Factors on which the final price for MRI of the pelvic organs depends:

region,
prestige of the clinic,
doctor's qualifications,
equipment quality,
availability of additional services.

The most expensive type of service is on ultra-high-field equipment. Such devices are usually used to study the brain, not the pelvic organs. Also, in clinics with higher prices, patients are offered professional qualifications, development of a treatment regimen, 24-hour service and discounts on subsequent procedures.

When choosing a suitable center for pelvic tomography, be guided not by the cost, but by the quality of the procedure. Special forums, sites with reviews, personal recommendations from friends and acquaintances will help you collect information.

MRI of the pelvic organs is a common non-invasive way to visualize organs and tissues of interest to the physician. For this, a powerful magnetic field and radio waves of a certain frequency are used, making it possible to see the organs between the pelvic bones. This technology is especially effective for examining dynamic processes occurring in the body.

The substance used during the process improves the quality of the information obtained, and preparation for it only involves the introduction of this substance. It is this technique that diagnoses various pathologies, as well as structural metamorphoses, at the earliest stages.

Quite often, doctors simply have no choice but to examine the patient using MRI, because other methods do not provide as much data necessary for treatment. In addition, other examinations (such as laparoscopy and others) are not only quite painful, but also much more difficult to perform.

Involves examination of the following areas:

Bladder.
The uterus itself, as well as the ovaries and, of course, the fallopian tubes.
Vagina.
The entire area behind the uterus.
Rectum.

Quite often these areas are affected by cancer. Therefore, the examination must be carried out immediately as soon as there is even the slightest suspicion of the presence of a tumor. Since MRI can show its development at an early stage, this significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

When should you see a doctor and go for a diagnosis? There are a number of symptoms that should never be ignored.

Dull, drawing or sharp pain in the abdomen as a whole or only in the pelvic area.
Noticeable weight loss for no apparent reason.
The appearance of blood in the urine or stool.
Heavy bleeding during menstruation.

If you have at least a couple of symptoms at the same time, you should not postpone a visit to the doctor. After all, it is a timely examination that allows for effective treatment and recovery. Despite the widespread and popularity of MRI and MRI with contrast, there are a number of contraindications that prevent this procedure from being performed. These include:

The patient has claustrophobia (the patient simply physically cannot lie still in the apparatus, so panic attacks will not allow the doctor to get a clear picture).
If the patient has ferromagnetic implants.
Contraindications include the presence of a pacemaker or insulin pump.
MRI cannot be used if the patient has hemostatic clips implanted (on the vessels of the brain).

As with any other test, MRI has a number of features that you need to consider before agreeing to the procedure.

The magnetic field does not affect a fully formed baby, but can affect a fetus under three months old. So you need to know for sure that the woman is not pregnant at the time of the examination.
the substance can negatively affect patients with renal failure and cause complications affecting the genitourinary area. This problem is especially relevant for diabetics, as well as patients with any kidney problems.
Before conducting the study, it would be good to conduct an allergy test to be sure that there is no allergic reaction to drugs containing iodine.
If the patient has a copper IUD inserted as a precautionary measure, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist. The magnetic field of the device can move it from its place, as a result, such protection will become completely ineffective.

How do you prepare for the examination?

Before performing an MRI of the pelvic organs, the doctor must warn the patient about the need to follow several rules that are important for successfully obtaining results. Preparation for the study includes the following points:

It is best to come to an MRI of the pelvis hungry, so either refrain from eating at all or have something very light for breakfast. Such preparation is very important for the effectiveness and success of the procedure.
A couple of days before the procedure, you need to remove from your usual menu all foods that can increase gas formation. These are all legumes, cabbage, vegetables and fruits rich in fiber.
If there is a lot of fluid in the bladder, the pictures will be blurry. And the patient will be extremely uncomfortable. So before the MRI, you need to visit the toilet. The only exception is the study of the bladder.
If a patient suffers from constipation, and he is undergoing not just an MRI of the pelvic organs, but of the rectum, he will have to take measures to empty his bowels on the day on which the procedure is scheduled. It is best to discuss this problem with a doctor: he will tell you which drugs are best to take from a number of laxatives, or prescribe an enema. It makes no difference what kind of examination will take place: with or without contrast.
If the patient is scheduled for examination of the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries, it will be carried out from the sixth to the ninth day of the menstrual cycle.

Preparation also includes taking an antispasmodic prescribed by a doctor an hour before the procedure. You should not take any medications at your own risk.

The study must be preceded by other procedures. So, it is best to go for an MRI with ultrasound images in hand: it will be easier for the doctor to formulate an overall picture and prescribe the best treatment. It is even better if the specialist knows the entire clinical history of the disease.

The procedure lasts on average up to forty minutes. The patient only needs to lie still so that the images come out as clear and detailed as possible. If an MRI is performed with contrast, a contrast agent will be injected into the patient's blood before the examination begins.

When is MRI with contrast used?

MRI image of the pelvic organs with contrast

As for, this is a separate procedure. What is it? This is the same examination, but it requires the introduction of a special contrast agent. It is administered intravenously to make the images clearer and more reliable. Such drugs are quite expensive, so the total cost of an MRI with contrast is significantly more than a conventional study. However, it is not always necessary to use it, but in order to clearly outline the border of the tumor before surgery, it is better to identify the structure of the tumor and find the smallest metastases.

Contrast agents are absolutely harmless to health and do not have any negative effects even when the examination is carried out several times. Their dosage depends on the patient’s body weight. Allergic reactions, of course, can happen, but this happens very rarely.

When is a pelvic MRI performed?

This examination is mandatory for the patient when the following points occur:

The slightest suspicion of tumor development or metastases in the examined area.
Any anomalies in the development of the pelvic organ.
Suspicions of problems such as cyst ruptures, ovarian apoplexy.
Any injuries related to the pelvic organs.
Continuous pain in the sacrum or pelvic area, without obvious causes.
Any inflammation in this area (for example, adnexitis or endometritis)
Possibility of developing endometriosis.
Diseases of the rectum.
If there is a possibility of cysts appearing in the ovaries.
Bleeding from the vagina for unknown reasons.
Causeless infertility.

What can a pelvic MRI reveal?

This examination may detect the following problems:

Presence of a tumor.
Cyst formation.
Development of inflammatory processes.
The appearance of adhesions in the fallopian tubes.
Pathologies of the intestines or bladder.
The appearance of kidney stones.
Pathologies not only of organs, but also of blood vessels.

The red arrow indicates cancer on an MRI image.

The arrows on the MRI image indicate endometriotic ovarian cysts

Using MRI, the doctor can see changes in tissues in the patient’s body at an early stage and identify a tumor smaller than a centimeter in size.

Survey results

After the procedure, the patient needs to wait about two hours: this is the average time it takes a doctor to draw up a full conclusion. Having received all the documents, the patient can go to the attending physician or receive a treatment plan from the specialist who performed the MRI.

Endometrioid lesions of the ureters on MRI examination

Conclusion

MRI is deservedly considered one of the most effective and informative examination methods, allowing to identify the disease and tumor development as early as possible and thereby increase a person’s chances of returning to health and a normal life. If the patient is prescribed not just an MRI of the pelvis, but a procedure with contrast, then you need to be prepared for a more significant cost. However, the effectiveness of such research pays for the costs.

Magnetic tomography is one of the popular and modern diagnostic methods today, and if a couple of decades ago it was only an auxiliary technique, today MRI is an indispensable independent study. It is often prescribed for examination of the pelvic organs in both men and women. MRI of the pelvis allows you to evaluate the anatomical structure of organs in this part of the body and identify any foci of pathology.

When should you have this scan?

MRI of the abdominal cavity and pelvis can often be prescribed as a preventive measure, but more often it is necessary for pain in this area of the body, disturbances in the functioning of individual organs, as well as injuries. Typically, a referral for this scan is given by specialized specialists, including:, or. Among the indications one can distinguish general ones, as well as specific ones for men and women.

General indications

This scan is done primarily if there is a suspicion of the presence of cancerous formations, as well as to determine the dynamics of their formation if they were previously identified in this part of the body.
MRI of the pelvic organs with contrast is applicable for cancer patients to determine the area of spread of metastases and damage to neighboring organs.
Magnetic tomography scanning is indicated for injury to this part of the body in both men and women.
It is periodically carried out as a preventive diagnosis in people with anomalies and pathologies in the structure of the organs of this part of the body.
Magnetic resonance imaging is recommended if the patient has been experiencing pain in the pelvic and sacral area for a long time, and the cause has not been previously clarified.
MRI of the pelvic organs is indicated for cyst ruptures or at the slightest suspicion of this, and is also used for other acute surgical pathologies.
Magnetic resonance imaging is indispensable for diseases of the urinary tract, as well as the kidneys and ureters. The method is applicable both for primary research and for tracking the dynamics of the development of chronic diseases of the genitourinary system.
This technique is used to find out the causes and...
MRI is also mandatory for intestinal disorders and anomalies in the structure of the rectum.
Sometimes it is prescribed for hip injuries, as well as for pain in the hip.

Additional indications for women

MRI of the pelvic organs in women is often prescribed to determine the causes of menstrual irregularities, as well as for vaginal bleeding that is not associated with menstruation.
MRI of the pelvis in women is applicable for diagnosis and treatment.
It is also prescribed if there is a suspicion of the development of inflammatory processes, including diseases such as, as well as.

Additional indications for men

Magnetic resonance scanning is used for men with inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs, among them.
It is also used to detect various types of tumors in the scrotum in men.
Magnetic tomography is also used to clarify data obtained during alternative diagnostic methods, before and after surgical interventions in a given part of the body.

Contraindications

Despite the fact that MRI is considered one of the safest research methods, like other alternative scanning methods, it has contraindications. First of all, the use of this examination method is prohibited in the following cases:

The presence in the patient’s body of foreign bodies and medical devices that contain metal particles. These include implants and some types of prostheses, shunts and dental crowns, insulin pumps, neuro- or cardiac pacemakers, and vascular clips.
MRI of the pelvis with contrast cannot be used if the patient is allergic to the contrast agent, which is usually a gadolinium-based drug.
Also, magnetic resonance scanning with contrast is not used if the patient suffers from, since the contrast is excreted through the kidneys and can cause an exacerbation of the chronic disease.
It is impossible to carry out the procedure if the patient’s weight is more than 130 kg, since the tomograph chamber is quite narrow.

It also has a list of relative contraindications for which the procedure is not recommended, but is performed for serious indications. Among them:

During the first months of pregnancy, scanning is not recommended, but can be performed if there is a danger to the patient's life.
If possible, it is worth abandoning this technique during breastfeeding, and if this is unavoidable, then exclude lactation for a period of two days.
Relative contraindication – in the patient. If the patient is afraid of closed spaces, he is unlikely to be able to behave calmly during the scan, and it requires complete immobility.
For the same reason - there is no way to ensure complete immobility - MRI is not applicable to children who have not yet turned five years old.

How to prepare for the procedure?

MRI of the pelvic organs does not require long and complex preparation, but there are important nuances that should not be forgotten:

To prepare for the scan, you should give up gas-forming foods two days in advance, otherwise the intestines will be poorly visualized.
Five hours before the magnetic resonance examination, you must refrain from eating and drinking.
Tomography is considered a painless procedure, but it is still recommended to take an antispasmodic an hour before.
If contrast is used, you should make sure that it will not cause allergic reactions in you.
Preparing for a bladder examination: It is necessary to fill the bladder as much as possible before the MRI.
Preparation for examination of other organs: it is necessary to empty the bladder.
MRI of the pelvic organs sometimes requires a preliminary bowel movement, especially in the case of examination of the rectum.
If magnetic tomography examination is used to diagnose gynecological problems in a woman, then it is worth choosing a specific day of the cycle: from 6 to 9 days.

So, now you know how to prepare for the procedure so that its results are as accurate and reliable as possible.

What does this diagnosis show?

Many patients are concerned about the question: what does an MRI of the pelvis show? This type of diagnosis allows you to identify any disease in this part of the body, most often visualizing:

Oncological lesions of the pelvic organs, including the ovaries, uterus and others.
Detects testicular cancer, as well.
It also allows you to detect foci of inflammation and places of injury.
It will also detect defects in bone structure, including congenital diseases.

How is the scan performed?

Magnetic resonance scanning is carried out according to the following scheme:

The doctor will find out if you are allergic to medications or if you are afraid of confined spaces if the MRI is performed in a closed tomograph. He will also make sure that the woman is not pregnant and there are no metal objects in the patient’s body.
The patient will be told how to behave correctly during the scan, reminded that it is important not to move, and asked to change into disposable clothing.
Before entering the office, you should remove all jewelry, as well as glasses, watches and other metal accessories.
You will be asked to lie on your back, taking the most comfortable position on the table of the device, which will be pushed into the capsule.
Your legs, as well as your arms and head, will be secured with straps and a bolster.
When the table is pushed into the tomograph, scanning will begin. You will not feel anything, you will hear a faint crackling sound, and you will see the tomograph ring rotating around you.
The doctor will sit in another room; to communicate with him, use the microphone, which is installed directly in the tunnel of the device.
An unpleasant sensation of heat or cold can only be caused by an injected contrast agent, most often administered intravenously, which colors the vascular system, making it more visible on the screen.
The scan takes about half an hour, but can take twice as long if contrast is used.
After its completion, you can return to any daily routine, you just have to wait for the results of the procedure to be deciphered.

Side effects

This type of diagnosis is considered harmless and very rarely causes unpleasant consequences. Very rarely, side effects may occur, but not more often than 2%. Mostly, such cases are associated with a reaction to contrast: burning and itching at the catheter insertion site, choking or coughing.

Advantages of the magnetic tomography method

Compared to alternative research methods, MRI has a number of important advantages, it is worth remembering them when choosing a research method:

Allows you to evaluate the structure and condition of any structures: bone, soft tissue, blood vessels, ligaments and cartilage.
Obtaining accurate, high-quality images in different planes.
Allows you to diagnose the slightest changes and anomalies that are invisible on other devices.
The most accurate method for detecting cancer formations and monitoring the dynamics of their development.

Joseph Addison

With the help of exercise and abstinence, most people can do without medicine.

There is no special preparation or dietary restrictions required, and if you are prescribed any medications, they should be taken as normal.

What should the doctor performing the MRI be warned about?

Be sure to tell your doctor before the test if you are pregnant, if you have any metal structures, grafted implants or electronic devices in your body, and especially a pacemaker. In the latter case, MRI is contraindicated. During pregnancy, you may be advised to postpone the examination or choose another possible method, since the effect of the magnetic field on the fetus is not fully understood.

Before undergoing the test, be sure to remove all electronic and metal objects (even if they contain a small amount of metal) and wear a robe or gown without a metal zipper. You should also remove all accessories - from watches, jewelry and hairpins, to dentures, hearing aids or a wig.

As the name implies, the magnetic resonance imaging procedure is based on the action of a magnetic field and the resonance of atoms, and the metal can disrupt the action of the magnetic field, thereby distorting the resulting images, and in the case of pacemakers and grafted electronic implants, affect the operation of the device. In addition, a distorted magnetic field can negatively affect the operation of an expensive tomograph.

What to expect during an MRI?

The MRI procedure is completely painless. As a rule, diagnostics are carried out in a large magnet tunnel, but if you suffer from a fear of closed spaces or are overweight, it is also possible to undergo examination using an open tomograph. Some types of imaging are performed with the intravenous administration of special contrast. This is also a painless procedure that does not cause allergies or any other negative reactions.

To ensure that you are not disturbed by extraneous sounds produced by the MRI scanner, you will be given ear plugs or pleasant music will be played. You can talk to the doctor who is conducting the study through the built-in microphone. As a rule, MRI diagnostics do not take more than 15 minutes, but in some cases, for example, when performing an MRI of the spine, the study can take about an hour. During the entire examination, lie quietly, without moving or turning your head, and breathe calmly. Any unnecessary movement can affect the quality of the resulting photo.

Instructions for eating or drinking fluids before an MRI vary depending on the type of test. Unless you are given special instructions, you can follow your normal daily routine and take your medications as usual. No preparation is required for MRI of the brain, spine, or joints.

Preparing for MRI of the pelvic organs
(bladder, prostate gland, uterus, appendages)

The study is carried out with average bladder filling. Before the study, you must not urinate for 2-3 hours and drink 0.5 liters of non-carbonated liquid 1 hour before the procedure. On the eve of the study, we recommend cleansing the intestines - laxatives with a mandatory cleansing enema at the end of the day. We recommend taking an antispasmodic (No-shpa, Drotaverine) 30–40 minutes before the test. It is important for women to indicate the day of their menstrual cycle.

Preparing for an MRI of the abdominal organs
(liver, gall bladder, pancreas, spleen)

MRI of the abdominal cavity is performed on an empty stomach. If the study cannot be carried out in the morning, a light breakfast is allowed. 2–3 days before the examination, it is necessary to switch to a slag-free diet: exclude from the diet foods that increase gas formation in the intestines (raw vegetables rich in plant fiber, whole milk, brown bread, legumes, carbonated drinks, as well as high-calorie confectionery products - pastries, cakes ). To reduce flatulence during this period of time, it is advisable to take enzyme preparations (Festal or Mezim-Forte) and enterosorbents (activated carbon at the rate of 1 tablet per 10 kg of weight or Espumisan, 1 tablet 3 times a day) . We recommend taking an antispasmodic (No-shpa, Drotaverine) 30–40 minutes before the test. All medications should be taken unless there are contraindications.

Pregnancy and MRI

If you are pregnant, be sure to inform your doctor before the test. Pregnancy is not a contraindication to MRI, but it is not entirely clear what effect the magnetic field has on the fetus. MRI is not recommended in the first 3 months of pregnancy - it is better to postpone the examination or choose an alternative method.

In modern clinics, capsules are equipped with good ventilation, lighting and even a sensor for conversation with a specialist, which allows minimizing discomfort and making the procedure as comfortable as possible for the patient. In addition, open capsules designed specifically for patients with fears of confined spaces are also gaining popularity.

If a contrast study is necessary, the contrast agent itself is injected into the patient’s vein using a special catheter. This process is also practically painless, but may be accompanied by slight chills or, on the contrary, a feeling of heat spreading throughout the body.

The examination of the pelvic organs itself can cause a burning sensation and an increase in temperature in the diagnostic area, which is caused by the action of high-frequency pulses and magnetic fields.

results

The results of magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis are stored on electronic media. Based on the images obtained during the study, the specialist who performed the procedure makes a preliminary conclusion. An accurate diagnosis is made by the attending physician after reviewing the results of the study. The doctor also develops the optimal therapeutic course for the patient.

Possible adverse reactions

Numerous reviews from patients indicate that MRI of the pelvic area is very well tolerated and, as a rule, does not affect health.

However, in some cases, the following adverse reactions may still occur:

allergic type manifestations;
itching and burning sensation in the area of the intravenous catheter;
skin rashes by type;
cough syndrome;
difficulty breathing;
a feeling of heaviness localized in the chest area.

As a rule, adverse reactions are observed during a contrast study, if the patient has contraindications or with increased sensitivity to the contrast agent.

Note: manifestations of adverse reactions, according to statistical data, were recorded in no more than 2% of patients!

MRI of the pelvic organs is characterized by maximum accuracy and information content. The use of this technique makes it possible to identify pathological changes and anomalies that are inaccessible to other diagnostic procedures. In addition, the undoubted advantages of this examination method are its painlessness, non-invasiveness and almost complete safety. The range of possible contraindications and adverse reactions is minimal. This technique is especially effective in diagnosing tumors of malignant origin and identifying possible causes of infertility.

Sovinskaya Elena, medical observer