An abdominal MRI offers a detailed look at the organs in the abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and abdominal aorta. The kidneys are included in the imaging, although they are part of the urogenital system within the retroperitoneal space.
MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. It is an advanced technology that uses magnets and radio waves to produce detailed 3D imaging of the abdominal organs for a radiologist to interpret. MRI helps distinguish normal tissues from injured or pathologic tissues. It is also used as a diagnostic scan to find the reason for a complaint or symptom.
Abdominal ultrasound can assess various symptoms associated with the abdominal organs as well as help diagnose certain conditions, including:
Hemangiomas
Carcinomas
Pancreatitis
Abdominal tumors
Liver disease
An abdominal MRI can help determine if an abnormal finding is causing a particular symptom or if it is incidental. It can also provide better detail on imaging findings discovered on ultrasound or CT scans.
MRI may help distinguish benign liver lesions (called hemangiomas) from malignant lesions (called carcinomas). In addition, an MRI can be a follow-up to a CT scan showing an unclear picture of the pancreas to help diagnose pancreatitis (inflammation).
An abdominal MRI is not ideal for all patients or conditions. Our specialists will discuss whether it is the best choice for you.
With multiple location across the Denver area, we make it easy for you to find a “Women’s Imaging Center near me” or a “Medical Diagnostic Imaging Center near me”