What can you eat on the eve of a pelvic MRI? MRI of the pelvis: how to properly prepare for the study

Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, in recent decades has evolved from a method with uncertain indications for its use into an entire independent section of medical radiology, allowing for the objectification of the diagnosis of many diseases.

MRI of the internal organs of the pelvis makes it possible to accurately determine the anatomical relationship and condition of the genitourinary organs, identify the pathological process, its localization and nature, as well as its relationship to neighboring organs, which greatly facilitates diagnosis and the correct choice of treatment tactics, especially in terms of landmarks during endoscopic operations.

Possibilities of MRI of the pelvic organs in women

The main conditions that apply to various diagnostic methods used in obstetrics and gynecology are safety, non-invasive or minimally invasive methods, a high degree of information content and the absence of radiation exposure. The latter makes it possible to carry out further dynamic monitoring of the effectiveness of the therapy.

The pelvic MRI method in women fully meets all of these listed requirements. Its main advantage is that in one study this diagnostic method combines some of the best characteristics of both X-ray computed tomography (X-ray computed tomography) and ultrasound (US).

MRI, like X-ray CT, makes it possible to obtain detailed information and detect changes not only in the pelvic organs - the uterus, appendages, sigmoid colon, rectum, bladder with ureters, but also in the soft tissues of the pelvic area, its walls, peritoneum and lymph nodes. However, in this case, radiation exposure to the body is completely excluded, which allows for repeated studies to determine the immediate and long-term results of conservative or surgical treatment.

In addition, drugs for contrasting organs or formations (if necessary) used for MRI, unlike radiopaque agents used for X-ray CT, do not contain iodine, which avoids complications in the form of severe and severe allergic reactions.

When choosing a diagnostic method, which is better, MRI or pelvic ultrasound? In obstetrics and gynecology, ultrasound remains the main method for the primary detection of disorders, while the results of MRI allow us to clarify and complete the diagnostic stage. The advantages of the method are that:

Compared to , the picture of direct MRI images of the pelvic organs in several planes is not limited to narrow echographic “windows”;
in comparison with transvaginal ultrasound examination, it surpasses it in the volume of data obtained, clarity and reliability of information;
there are no restrictions in conducting studies of the pelvic organs in girls, while this factor significantly reduces the possibilities of echography;
there is no need for maximum filling of the bladder, which is of great importance in cases of impaired tone, urinary incontinence, etc.;
this method is much more effective both in diagnosis and in dynamic monitoring in the treatment of patients with incompetence of the pelvic floor muscles, especially with complications such as urinary incontinence and some others.

In cases of suspected cancer, MRI of the pelvic organs allows:

Determine definitively and with high confidence the absence or presence of a tumor formation.
Determine the size, contours and internal structure of the neoplasm (the presence of cysts, tissue necrosis, hemorrhages).
Identify the organ from which it originates or with which it is connected, the anatomical position of the tumor in relation to other organs.
Carry out a volumetric review of the pelvic organs and identify the presence of ascitic fluid, as well as enlarged lymph nodes, which may have metastasized.
Find out about the possibility of performing a puncture or other type of biopsy of a formation that is “suspicious” of a malignant tumor.

Are adhesions visible on MRI? Despite the high information content of the method, a conclusion can only be made based on indirect signs, although more reliably than when conducting an ultrasound examination. Only very coarse adhesions can be seen in the resulting images. It is generally impossible to judge their presence in the lumen of the fallopian tubes or in the area of the villi of the funnel of the tube. In these cases, laparoscopic diagnostics are mainly used.

General idea of the principle of the method

What is the research being done on? The method is based on the phenomenon of nuclear magnetic resonance. For this purpose, there are various magnetic resonance imaging scanners that generate radio frequency pulses that are directed to the area under study. These radio frequency waves create a uniform, specially configured high-intensity electromagnetic field.

The MRI procedure itself, both of the pelvic organs and other organs, consists of placing the patient in a horizontal position on a movable table in a special tomograph chamber, which contains several magnetic coils of the device. Through the latter, the required zone is scanned.

These devices are designed for specific areas of the body. They can be closed or open. In the latter, the coil is placed only over the area under study. Therefore, they are more comfortable for patients, especially for those suffering from claustrophobia, but their power is almost half as powerful. How long does the scan take? The duration of the procedure is from 20 to 40 minutes.

The principle of obtaining images is as follows. Many protons in the human body, which are the nucleus of the hydrogen atom, constantly rotate around their natural axis. Under the influence of the powerful magnetic field created by the device, they line up in a certain way and rotate around a new axis. After the impact on the area under study ceases, the nuclei return to their original state, releasing energy, which is perceived by the coil and then processed by a computer program.

The denser the tissue or liquid, the more energy it emits. In addition, the amount of energy depends on the duration of the alignment of hydrogen atoms. It is greater in softer tissues compared to dense ones. The computer, receiving information about different energies, builds corresponding images of different areas.

This creates multiple images of sections of tissues and organs up to 3-6 mm thick at different depths in different projections, similar to an x-ray. They allow a fairly complete assessment of the organs themselves and their structure. Because these images are digital, they can be stored on a computer and later examined in more detail.

Some patients are prescribed an MRI of the pelvis with contrast - what is it? The study involves the intravenous administration of special extracellular low-molecular substances based on the chemical element gadolinium - Omniscan, Magnevist. These drugs have pronounced paramagnetic properties - absorption and emission of electromagnetic waves in the radio frequency range. They extremely rarely cause allergic reactions and do not lead to anaphylaxis, unlike iodine radiocontrast drugs.

After being introduced into the blood under the influence of an electromagnetic field, the contrasting solution accumulates and is distributed in the tissues of the area to which this field is directed, which makes it possible to obtain a significantly larger amount of information.

Indications and contraindications for the study

The first trimester of pregnancy, during which all organs of the fetus are formed.
The presence of implanted systems for dosed administration of drugs or an artificial heart pacemaker, since a powerful electromagnetic field can disrupt their functioning.
The presence of auditory implants or vascular stents, metal joint endoprostheses or pins, plates, bolts, staples, screws installed for the purpose of repositioning and holding bones in the fracture area.
Claustrophobia (fear of closed spaces). This contraindication is taken into account only when using closed-type devices.

After the study, the specialist deciphers the MRI, which can describe the anatomical changes of the uterus and appendages, deviations from their physiological position in the pelvis or in relation to each other, inflammatory changes in tissues, the presence of an indication of the stage of its development, the presence of fluid in the Douglas (behind the uterus) space, indirect signs of adhesions in the pelvis. They also describe in detail their size and connection with other organs, the presence of metastases in the pelvic bones and regional lymph nodes.

It is also possible to detect polyps in the bladder, pathological pathological changes in the bladder and lower parts of the large intestine, etc. After this, the results of the study and its interpretation are formalized into a presumptive or final conclusion.

Indications for MRI of the pelvic organs in women

How often can an MRI be done? There is no data on the harmful effects of the procedure on patients. Therefore, there are no regulations regarding the frequency of studies, as well as the duration of their conduct. It all depends on the need for primary diagnosis or dynamic monitoring of treatment results and is determined by the treating specialist. At the same time, as with other studies, it is necessary to take into account the presence of contraindications in patients:

Cases of difficulty in making a final diagnosis after all non-invasive clinical laboratory and traditional instrumental studies, including ultrasound, colonoscopy and others.
Contradictions between the symptoms of the disease and the results of the examination already carried out using the above methods.
Assumption of the presence of common forms of endometriosis and.
Assumption of the presence of adhesions in the pelvis in patients operated on for endometriosis.
The presence of tumors in the pelvis to resolve the issue of the possibility of surgical intervention using laparoscopic methods.
Clarification of the nature of developmental anomalies of the urinary or reproductive system.

Contrast-enhanced MRI shows:

in cases of difficulty in making a diagnosis and difficulty in carrying out differential diagnosis based on data obtained as a result of conventional magnetic resonance scanning;
if it is impossible to carry out the necessary tomographic “slice” in order to delimit the tumor from the tissues surrounding it, determine the exact boundaries and number of foci, which makes it possible to determine the volume of surgical intervention, if necessary;
if it is necessary to fully assess the structure of a tumor or other formation;
for better visualization of regional lymph nodes;
in order to monitor the sufficiency of surgical treatment, the effectiveness of chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.

Preparation for MRI of the pelvic organs in women

The examination is carried out with a slightly or moderately full bladder. If emergency diagnostics are required, special preparation for MRI is not carried out. How to prepare for a planned study?

maintain proper nutrition several days (2-3) before the procedure; The recommended diet before MRI involves excluding foods that can increase intestinal motility and the formation of gases in it (foods rich in fiber, legumes, animal fats, fatty meats, carbonated drinks, flour products);
taking laxatives on the eve of the procedure, followed by a cleansing enema before bedtime and in the morning on the day of the examination;
taking antispasmodic drugs (No-spa) the day before and half an hour to an hour before the procedure (in the presence of spastic abdominal pain);
conducting the study on an empty stomach.

On what day of the cycle is an MRI performed? It is advisable to carry out the examination from 6 to 14 days of the cycle, counting from the first day of menstruation, but it is also possible during the second phase of the menstrual cycle.

The main disadvantages of magnetic resonance imaging are the duration of the procedure session, the inability to reliably diagnose stones and calcifications, the inability to examine patients with an artificial heart pacemaker and the presence of metal structures in the body, and the rather high cost of the equipment and its operation.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvic organs is a painless technique for studying the patient’s body, which uses the properties of magnetic radiation and radio waves. This procedure provides the opportunity to visualize organs, tissues and physiological processes.

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://france-la.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mrt_taz7.jpg" alt="Magnetic resonance imaging" width="640" height="480"> !}

Magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvic organs is a painless technique for examining the patient’s body.

MRI today is the most popular way to diagnose functional disorders or traumatic injuries of various organs. This makes it easier for medical specialists to make a diagnosis. Simple preparation for pelvic MRI ensures an easy procedure.

A modern modification of magnetic resonance imaging includes virtual endoscopy with three-dimensional images:

diffusion MRI – records the movement process of fluids inside cells;
diffusion-weighted examination. Determines the relocation of radio-labeled protons;
magnetic resonance diffusion: diagnosing blood flow;
spectroscopy is a combined diagnostic method that allows you to identify biochemical changes in fluid and tissue;
angiography – provides the ability to visualize sections of tissue vessels.

The entire information base is recorded on media.

Main characteristics of the procedure

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://france-la.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mrt_taz5.jpg" alt=" Magnetic resonance imaging" width="640" height="480"> !}

Modern modification of magnetic resonance imaging includes virtual endoscopy with three-dimensional images

The diagnostic method is based on the unique capabilities of nuclear magnetic resonance. The process uses a variety of magnetic resonance transistors to generate radiofrequency pulses directed at the organ or tissue being examined. Radiofrequency vibrations create a uniform, configured high-intensity field.

The image appears as follows: in the human body, protons rotate around a natural axis all the time. The creation of a magnetic field allows them to line up in a new order and change their trajectory in a given plane. When the impact stops, the protons return to their original position. The energy released by them is sensed by a magnetic coil, and this action is recorded and processed by a computer program.

The higher the density of the liquid or tissue, the greater the amount of energy emitted by the object being examined. It is directly dependent on the time it takes for the atoms to line up. The duration of chain construction in soft tissues is much longer than in hard ones. Thus, the computer, receiving data about temporary differences in energy, builds an image according to different areas.

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://france-la.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mrt_taz4.jpg" alt="Research" width="640" height="480"> !}

The creation of a magnetic field allows them to line up in a new order, change their trajectory in a given plane

The process creates many images of sections of tissues and organs of various projection depths with a thickness of up to 6 mm, similar in appearance to an x-ray. This technique allows you to evaluate the structure of organs, and since the images are digital, they are stored in a computer and can be used for detailed study.

Important! The apparatus for carrying out the procedure can be closed or open. The power of an open tomograph is half that of a closed one, so to obtain better diagnostics, you should use a closed type of device. The duration of the examination is from 30 minutes.

Indications for diagnostics of the pelvic cavity

Magnetic resonance imaging is prescribed to women to confirm preliminary diagnoses of a malformation or inflammatory process in the uterus and appendages, cystic neoplasm, tumor, metastasis, suspicion of endometrium.

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://france-la.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mrt_taz3.jpg" alt=" Examination of a man" width="640" height="480"> !}

The apparatus for carrying out the procedure can be closed or open type

For men, diagnosis is made due to abnormal development of the organs of the genitourinary system, inflammatory or hyperplastic anomalies, inflammation and tumors of the prostate, testicles, bladder and ureters.

General indications for magnetic resonance scanning

Suspicion of malignant formations, monitoring the dynamics of tumor formation.
Determination of the zone of increased spread of metastases and the degree of damage to neighboring organs.
Injury to any pelvic area.
Preventive diagnosis of abnormal and pathological body structures.
Prolonged pain in the pelvic area and sacrum.
Rupture of cystic tissue or suspected tissue rupture, as well as other acute pathologies of the abdominal organs.
Diseases of the urinary tract, kidneys and ureters. Primary anamnesis and monitoring of the dynamics of the development of the disease and the progress of therapeutic treatment.
Identifying the cause of infertility.
Abnormal structures of the rectum.
Damage or pain in the hip.

Contraindications to the procedure

Magnetic resonance diagnostics is the safest instrumental procedure, but despite this, this examination method has a number of serious contraindications.

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://france-la.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mrt_taz2.jpg" alt="Pelvic image" width="640" height="480"> !}

Duration of the examination: from 30 minutes

It is strictly prohibited to use this method in the following cases:

the presence of implants, foreign bodies (bullets, fragments), medical devices that stimulate the functionality of any organs (neuro-, psycho- and cardiac pacemakers, prostheses, pumps, clips, coronary artery bypass grafting, etc.);
obesity. The diameter of the tomograph is intended for people weighing less than 130 kg;
pregnancy, especially the first trimester;
the lactation period has relative restrictions on the procedure;
claustrophobia;
mental disorders;
age up to five years.

Some restrictions are relative in nature, therefore, if absolutely necessary, diagnostics are carried out with additional safety measures.

Preparation for the procedure

Magnetic resonance imaging does not require special preparation; for pre-planned procedures, it is recommended that the bladder be kept moderately full. Emergency diagnostics are carried out without special preparation.

How to prepare for an MRI?

Preparation for an MRI of the pelvic organs includes the following steps:

Three days before the examination, you need to exclude gas-forming drinks and foods rich in fats, coarse fiber and flour foods.
It is mandatory to take laxatives 12 hours before. On the morning of the diagnosis, a cleansing enema is performed.
If there is pain in the abdominal area, it is recommended to take antispasmodics immediately before the procedure.
Diagnosis is carried out only on an empty stomach.
In women, diagnosis is carried out from the 7th to the 15th day of the menstrual cycle (if necessary, it is allowed in the second period).

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://france-la.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mrt_taz1.jpg" alt=" Tomography" width="640" height="480"> !}

Magnetic resonance imaging does not require special preparation; for pre-planned procedures, it is recommended that the bladder be kept moderately full

They come for diagnostics in loose clothing, without metal parts. Many clinics provide a disposable cotton cover for the procedure. All clothing, watches, jewelry, metal objects and removable dentures must be left behind before entering the treatment room.

Important! Before the examination, technologists are notified of the presence of any foreign objects, implants, tattoos, piercings, or permanent dentures in the body.

Carrying out magnetic resonance imaging

For patients with increased weight category or claustrophobia, it is more advisable to use open-type diagnostic equipment. This category of tomograph has the clearest image with an increased magnetic field, more than one Tesla.

How to make a diagnosis:

The patient is placed on the retractable part of the device and automatically moves inside the tomograph.
To examine the pelvic area, a magnetic coil is installed aimed at the pelvic area of the body.
The patient must lie motionless throughout the entire procedure; for this, the patient’s body is fixed to the retractable couch with straps. The diagnosis itself is harmless and painless, but some patients may feel discomfort due to the influence of increased magnetic activity.
The patient is alone in the treatment room, an audio connection is established between him and the radiologist, the specialist himself sees the patient and controls the course of events.
After the diagnosis is completed, the patient needs some time to adapt.

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://france-la.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mrt_taz9.jpg" alt="Closed tomograph" width="640" height="480"> !}

For patients with increased weight category or claustrophobia, it is more advisable to use open-type diagnostic equipment

When diagnosing children, people with mental disorders, or fear of closed spaces, sedatives are used, so the examination time increases.

After the procedure is completed, radiologists begin to review the details, study what the image shows, and draw up a conclusion based on the results of the examination. The time interval from the end of the procedure to the preparation of a complete anamnesis can be two hours. Images, disks and a final anamnesis are given to the patient for presentation to the specialist who prescribed the diagnosis.

What does magnetic resonance imaging show?

An MRI is performed to identify the following pathologies of the female body:

Benign neoplasms.
Malignant degeneration of tissue.
Congenital features of the development of the organs of the reproductive system, such as a double uterus, a bicornuate uterus, congenital absence or acquired closed vagina.
Inflammatory processes.
Position of the fetus in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Cystic formations.
Obstruction of the fallopian tubes (adhesions).
Endometrium.
Physical damage to the female reproductive organs.
Accumulation of blood or purulent masses in the fallopian tube.
Prolapse, prolapse of the uterus, intestinal processes, bladder.
Damage to the coccyx, hip bones.
Sand and stone deposits in the urinary organs.

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://france-la.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mrt_taz10.jpg" alt=" Tomography with contrast" width="640" height="480"> !}

After the procedure is completed, radiologists begin to review the details, study what the image shows, and draw up a conclusion based on the examination results

MRI of the pelvis in male patients can determine:

Modifications in the prostate gland (prostate adenoma).
Inflammation in the genitourinary system: vesiculitis, orchitis.
Damage due to trauma.
Modifications of vascular tissue.
Traumatic injuries to bone tissue.
Malignant or benign neoplasms.
Stones in the organs of the urinary system.

Advantages and disadvantages of the survey

Magnetic resonance imaging is a painless, non-invasive way to examine a person’s internal organs. Ionizing radiation is not used in the diagnostic process; diagnostic images are high-quality and detailed, exceeding the level of diagnosis by any other methods.

It is possible to obtain an image of abnormal development, tumor formations, traumatic injuries and other pathologies that are not possible to diagnose in other ways.

Magnetic resonance imaging can detect minor morphological changes without histological analysis. Often the procedure replaces a tissue biopsy.

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://france-la.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mrt_taz8.jpg" alt="Open tomograph" width="640" height="480"> !}

Magnetic resonance imaging is a painless, non-invasive way to examine human internal organs

MRI is more informative than computed tomography in the case of diagnosing tumors, abscesses and other bulky tissue in the pelvic cavity.

Possible negative reactions during diagnosis

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://france-la.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mrt_taz6.jpg" alt="Pelvic examination" width="640" height="480">!}

General information

Magnetic resonance imaging is better performed on a closed tomograph, since it has a higher field, which guarantees improved image quality than on open tomographs.

For a comprehensive examination, MRI alone is not enough; specialists may additionally prescribe ultrasound, radiography, multispiral computed tomography or PET examination.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvic organs is an examination of internal organs using magnetic waves. Allows you to obtain a three-dimensional image of the pelvic organs without pain, discomfort or any consequences.

MRI of the pelvic organs examines organs such as:

Uterus and appendages;
Bladder;
Vagina;
Rectum.
Prostate
vas deferens

Indications for MRI of the pelvic organs are as follows:

Malignant and benign tumors (uterus, tubes, ovaries, bladder);
Various inflammatory processes;
Acute infections (bladder, ovaries);
Anomalies in the development of the organs of the genitourinary system.

Only a doctor can prescribe a referral for magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvic organs, taking into account the results of previous tests, as well as the patient’s complaints. Typically, MRI of the pelvis is performed after a previously performed ultrasound or CT scan of the examined area.

Among other things, you should take into account the presence of a list of contraindications for this procedure. The doctor will tell the patient about contraindications. In addition to contraindications, MRI of the pelvic organs has a whole list of preparatory procedures.

It is important to understand that the key to successful diagnosis and making an accurate and correct diagnosis is proper preparation for the examination, so you should not neglect it.

Preparation for MRI diagnostics of the pelvic organs

To find out how to prepare for a pelvic MRI, you should consult with a specialist. The preparation for each individual patient may differ from the “general” preparation. The general list of preparatory measures is as follows and includes:

The procedure is prohibited during menstruation. The ideal time before the examination is from 6 to 12 days of the cycle (in this case, it is worth agreeing with the doctor in advance about the exact date of the examination).
The day before the procedure, you should exclude from your diet foods that cause increased gas formation (carbonated drinks, beans and peas, bread, vegetables and fruits).
If you experience increased gas formation, you should take tablets that eliminate it. They should be taken a couple of hours before the procedure (espumisan, for example).
If you are constipated, you should take an enema or drink a mild laxative the day before, since this type of MRI requires an empty bowel.
The procedure is carried out on an empty stomach. The last meal is no later than 4 hours before the MRI.
30-40 minutes before the start of the procedure, you should take 2 No-Shpa tablets.
You should undergo an MRI with a moderately full bladder.
You must have all the necessary extracts from your medical record with you.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an effective non-invasive (performed without surgery) diagnostic method that allows a detailed examination of the organs and tissues of the pelvis.

Based on MRI results, the doctor can determine the presence, cause, and extent of spread of diseases of the internal pelvic organs at different stages of development, make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment.

For women, MRI is prescribed to examine the uterus, vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder and all tissues of the pelvis.

In men, the seminal vesicles, vas deferens, prostate gland, bladder, ureters and rectum are examined.

MRI of the pelvic organs with contrast is performed strictly according to indications, most often to detect oncology and various infectious diseases. It is in these pathologies that the “sick” areas of tissue are especially intensively nourished through an extensive network of small blood vessels, which is clearly visible in MRI images with contrast.

Indications

An MRI of the pelvic organs is prescribed by an oncologist, gynecologist, surgeon, urologist or proctologist. There are no age restrictions for this study.

Main general indications:

diagnosis of cancer, detection of metastases;
injuries and developmental abnormalities;
pain for a long time in the sacrum and pelvis;
cyst rupture or suspicion of this condition, other acute surgical pathologies;
diseases of the urinary system (stones and sand in the ureters, etc.);
infertility;
pathological processes in the rectum.
damage, defects and pain in the hip.

Indications for MRI in women:

vaginal bleeding for no specific reason;
inflammatory diseases (adnexitis, endometritis);

For men:

inflammatory diseases (prostatitis, vesiculitis)
neoplasms in the scrotum in men;

Also, MRI of the pelvic organs is prescribed to clarify the results of other diagnostic examinations, in the preoperative period and to monitor the patient’s condition after surgical treatment.

Contraindications

As with any medical examination, there are a number of contraindications for MRI of the pelvic organs.

Absolute contraindications that make the procedure impossible include the following:

implants and other foreign bodies containing metal (the only exception is implants in the oral cavity);
implanted electronic devices (pacemakers, insulin pumps, etc.);
installed Ilizarov apparatus (a system that fixes bone fragments in the correct position for complex bone fractures);
allergy to contrast agent;
chronic renal failure (with MRI with contrast, the substance is excreted from the body through the kidneys and can provoke an exacerbation of the disease);
the patient is overweight (more than 130 kg) and waist circumference exceeds the diameter of the MR capsule.

A variety of implants and endoprostheses containing metal can affect the accuracy of the data obtained and distort the picture of the condition of the internal organs. And the magnetic field of the tomograph can disrupt the uninterrupted operation of life-supporting electronic devices (heart pacemaker, for example). Therefore, patients with such devices are prohibited from undergoing MRI.

There are contraindications for MRI, which do not prevent the procedure, but somewhat limit it. These include:

Early pregnancy. MRI is not recommended for pregnant women under 20 weeks. However, in case of urgent vital need, the examination is considered acceptable.
Lactation period (breastfeeding). The contrast agent passes into breast milk, so nursing mothers are advised to wean their baby off the breast for 2 days. Milk must be expressed and never given to the baby.
Claustrophobia (fear of closed spaces) and hyperkinesis (a disease of the nervous system accompanied by increased motor tone). Patients with these diseases or a tendency to them will not be able to remain calm and completely still during the study. If an MRI is performed for emergency reasons, then the subject is put into medicated sleep for the duration of the procedure.
Children's age up to 5 years. Although the procedure has no age restrictions, young patients are not always able to remain completely still for the required time. And if it is not possible to avoid the examination, it is recommended that the child be given a mild sedative before the procedure.

Preparing for an MRI of the pelvis

The specifics of preparatory measures for MRI of the pelvic organs depend on the purpose of the study.

For 2 days before the procedure, you must adhere to a diet that excludes foods that can cause increased gas formation in the intestines (vegetables, fruits, legumes, carbonated drinks).
On the day of the study, 1 hour before the MRI, it is recommended to take any antispasmodic (no-spa, drotaverine, papaverine).

Important! MRI with contrast is performed strictly on an empty stomach. For a procedure without contrast, a light breakfast is allowed.

With MRI of the bladder, it is important not to urinate before the examination, as the bladder must be full (for better visualization);
When examining other organs, on the contrary, it is advisable to empty the bladder in order to obtain the highest quality images;
Before MRI of the rectum, it is necessary to empty the intestines (if the patient suffers from constipation, then a cleansing enema must be done);
For women with gynecological diseases, MRI of the ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes is performed in the 2nd week of the menstrual cycle (from 6 to 9 days).

What does an MRI of the pelvic organs show?

The test result is usually prepared within 1-2 hours after the procedure and given to the patient.

In women, examination may reveal:

cancer (ovarian, cervical and others);
endometriosis and uterine fibroids;
neoplasms and various pathologies in the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

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

In addition, pelvic MRI can detect birth defects, bone tumors, arthrosis, and hip fractures.

Technique

Before starting the diagnosis, the radiologist conducts a survey of the patient to identify allergic reactions, the presence of metal implants in the body or tattoos with metal-containing inks.

For women, it is determined whether they are pregnant or whether she is a nursing mother. All this is necessary to once again make sure that the patient has no contraindications to the examination. During the conversation, the patient is explained the tactics of his behavior in case of unforeseen situations (panic, fear) and/or if his health worsens.

The subject changes into cotton clothes, removes all jewelry, wristwatches, hairpins and other metal objects. Then it is positioned horizontally on the scanner table, its limbs are secured with special clamps (to avoid involuntary movements during the procedure). The table, together with the patient, slides into the tunnel of the tomograph (a large round magnet).

In the shooting mode, the tomograph produces characteristic sounds (clicks, hums), which the patient may not hear if he used the headphones suggested by the nurse. But the patient can judge that the device is working by a feeling of burning in the pelvic area and an increase in local temperature. There is no need to be afraid, this is how the magnetic field and high-frequency impulses affect the body.

If it is necessary to administer a contrast agent before the procedure, the nurse will place an intravenous catheter. During the procedure, the product is injected automatically. Its entry into the vein is accompanied by a feeling of heat or cold spreading through the bloodstream.

An MRI of the pelvic organs takes 30-45 minutes. An MRI scan with contrast may take a little longer.

Side effects

MRI does not harm human health. However, in some cases (about 1-2%), manifestations of increased sensitivity to the contrast agent may be observed: symptoms of urticaria, itching and burning in the area where the catheter is installed, bronchopulmonary symptoms (heaviness in the chest, difficulty breathing, sometimes suffocation, cough) and other reactions.

More often, this reaction occurs in people who hid from the doctor or did not warn him due to their ignorance about their tendency to allergies.

Alternative diagnostic methods

Compared with ultrasound (US), radiography and computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging has undeniable advantages. This

“full immersion” in the area under study;
the ability to examine organs and tissues in all planes;
high contrast and better resolution;
the ability to detect even minor changes in organs and tissues;
higher information content in terms of diagnosing benign tumors, cancer and infections.

Such a volume of information as MRI can only be provided by hysteroscopy - an endoscopic examination of the internal organs and tissues of the pelvis using special surgical equipment. MRI is a non-invasive (non-traumatic) procedure, making it the most popular diagnostic method. In addition, the safety of the procedure makes it possible to repeatedly examine one patient at relatively short intervals.

Every visit to the clinic causes us some anxiety, or, more simply, doubt. We do not know how to behave during the examination, what food can be taken before the procedure, and what actions are generally contraindicated. So, MRI is no exception. Let's take a closer look at some of the steps and nuances before an MRI. We will definitely assure you that the examination is completely harmless if you follow all the doctor’s recommendations and instructions. Carefully study the questionnaires that the clinic provides to familiarize yourself with your characteristic characteristics of the body. Specialists will definitely tell you how to prepare for an MRI of the pelvis.

Is it possible to eat food before the examination?

The internal organs of the small pelvis include the digestive tract. Therefore, eating, or rather the question of time, how many hours before you can eat food, is urgent for many patients. Sometimes, due to shyness, we do not ask additional questions to the doctor, which are important in the examination. This is how food intake depends on the type of examination. What can you eat before and is it possible to eat before an MRI at all? During your consultation with your doctor, you will be told in detail what you should not eat before an MRI and what foods cause excess gas. These products include: carbonated water, cabbage, kefir, fermented baked milk, sour cream, etc. According to medical statistics, a good way to prepare the body is a slag-free diet before an MRI of the pelvis.

What features of the female body should be taken into account

Every woman, starting at about 12 years of age, begins puberty. Every month a girl, and subsequently a woman, undergoes a menstrual cycle. And accordingly, she wonders whether it is possible to do an MRI during menstruation? Doctors recommend conducting the examination from the 6th to the 12th day. The patient can independently calculate the day of her cycle when it is better for her to go to the clinic for examination. during menstruation is contraindicated, since blood flow to the pelvic area during menstruation increases, as a result of which diagnostic results may be unreliable.

MRI of the pelvis with contrast - preparation for examination

A contrast agent allows you to increase the clarity of the image in the picture. MRI with contrast is most often prescribed to people suspected of having pelvic cancer. This method allows you to detect the presence of a malignant neoplasm at the initial stage.

The patient is administered a drug (based on the metal gadolinium) intravenously, having previously calculated the permissible dose and rate of administration. The contrast agent enters the body synchronously with the examination procedure. We dare to assure you that this is a completely safe substance.

However, there is a contraindication to the use of contrast. Pregnant and lactating women fall into this category. In general, in rare cases they are prescribed an MRI. But if there is still a need for an examination, you should definitely inform the doctor about the presence of such factors, so as not to harm the fetus inside the womb or the child during lactation. You can feed the baby only after several days after the procedure.

What else are they warning about?

at a consultation with a doctor

A magnetic resonance imaging scanner is a tube surrounded by a magnet. During operation, a magnetic field is created that disables all metal electrical appliances (if the patient has any). Therefore, when filling out a form at the clinic, do not neglect this issue. Be sure to tell your doctor if they are present in your body. Before the MRI procedure, you should remove all metal-containing items (watches, belts, etc.).

One important detail that includes preparation for a pelvic examination is bowel movement. If you suffer from constipation, you need to do an enema, since intestinal contamination can affect reliable results.

We have already said that a pelvic examination includes the organs of the digestive tract. In order to prevent peristalsis (bowel movement), it is recommended to take two tablets of NO-shpa or Buscopan a few hours before the MRI. This will reduce the shrinkage of the hollow tube walls.

How long will it take for a pelvic MRI and preparation for the examination?

It is impossible to answer this unequivocally. Time frames can range from several days to a week. It is MRI of the pelvis that requires longer preparation than other examinations. This depends on several factors: for example, in women, on the menstrual cycle. The rest of the preparation is aimed at normalizing the functioning of the intestines, since its condition affects the reliability of the results.

Remember that a pelvic MRI is not an operation and you will not experience any pain. Remain calm and follow the advice of specialists. Listen carefully to the consultant doctor and ask additional questions if something is not clear to you. Take the procedure seriously, and then your examination results will be most useful for making a diagnosis.