MRI Enterography

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful tool for screening and diagnosis. Many consider it to be the best way to detect diseases in their earliest, most treatable stage. 

The exam is non-invasive, uses no radiation, and our state-of-the-art equipment offers a more comfortable imaging experience. Your health care practitioner may order MRI enterography scan to examine your abdomen, focusing on the small bowel. 

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

• Please let us know if you are, or may be, pregnant, or if you’ve had recent surgery.
• Please also inform us if you have metal in your body. Here is a list of metal objects that may be a concern. Your technologist may ask you to remove any metallic objects, which are unsafe near the MRI magnet.
• Take all prescribed medications as directed.
• If you are having oral contrast, please do not eat or drink (except water) after midnight prior to your appointment.
• Please arrive 70 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time to start an intravenous line and for the oral contrast (Lactulose) to take effect. 
• Bring photo identification and your provincial health card. 
• Wear comfortable clothes. 
• Please do not bring children who require supervision. 

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

• You may be asked to change into scrubs.
• You will be asked to drink roughly one 500 ml bottle of water mixed with 40 ml of Lactulose (an oral contrast solution that helps enhance your images) every 20 minutes over the next 60 minutes. 
• After 60 minutes you will be taken to the MRI scanner and asked to lie on your back on the cushioned scanner table, which will then be adjusted for correct placement. We will do our best to make you comfortable. 
• An MRI can be loud, so you will be provided with headphones or ear plugs to reduce the noise. Eye masks are available upon request for patients who have difficulty relaxing in a confined space. You are also given an emergency call bell to stop the exam, if needed. 
• Your technologist will then set up an intravenous (IV) line for the contrast solution.
• Once you are relaxed and comfortable, a sensor will be positioned around the body part being scanned. The table will then move slowly into the MRI scanner, which is well lit and ventilated. 
• Your technologist will leave the room to begin your exam, but you will be in direct communication throughout your procedure.
• Your technologist will take several initial scans, then administer the contrast solution through your IV to enhance your remaining images.
• You will be asked to hold very still, as movement may result in blurring of images. Your technologist will be close by at all times.  
• You may be asked to hold your breath for some of the images. Breath holds can last between 5-25 seconds. 
• Once we have successfully captured your images, we will remove your IV and you are free to leave. 

POST-EXAM INSTRUCTIONS

It is important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to “flush out” the contrast solution. Most of the solution is out of your system within the six hours following your exam and will be completely eliminated within 24 hours.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the information and forward the results to your doctor in a timely manner. Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

The exam is only available in Alberta. These exams are provided at our Mayfair Place location as private pay exams and are not covered by Alberta Health Care. Prices are per body area. If additional body areas are scheduled within the same appointment, discounts apply. For example, the abdomen is one body area, while the spine is divided into three body areas.

We offer a 10% Seniors discount (65+) that can be applied to the total MRI exam.

Your health spending account or group medical insurance plan may cover the cost of a private MRI that is prescribed by a qualified health care practitioner. You will need to check with your plan administrator for coverage details.

Please note that contrast is an additional cost of $250.