Small bowel MRI

A small bowel MRI is used to assess the structure of the small intestinal wall, possible inflammatory changes, and intraluminal lesions. It also helps detect strictures, tumors, and inflammatory complications such as fistulas and abscesses.

Why is a small bowel MRI performed?

• detect Crohn’s disease or other inflammatory bowel diseases
• investigate long-lasting or unexplained abdominal pain
• identify intestinal narrowing or obstruction
• evaluate causes of gastrointestinal bleeding
• detect tumors of the small intestine
• monitor known disease progression and treatment response

What you need to know about the examination

• Do not eat for 6 hours before the examination
• Please arrive 1 hour before your scheduled appointment
• One hour before the scan, you will be asked to drink 1.5 liters of a diluted solution (Eziclen or Fortrans) within 60 minutes. This solution expands the small bowel lumen, which is essential for high-quality imaging. It may cause diarrhea.
• A venous cannula will be placed in your arm for the administration of contrast agent and medication (Bysimin) to slow intestinal movement.
• The examination takes up to 45 minutes.