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Examination of the pelvic area is most often associated with cancer diagnostics of the reproductive organs in women or the prostate gland in men. Many pathological changes are detected by ultrasound and, as an alternative, also by computed tomography. An alternative to these methods is pelvic magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI.
When is pelvic MRI performed?
Imaging diagnostics of the pelvis begins with a basic examination, i.e. ultrasound. Ultrasonography is the safest method that allows to obtain a cross-section of selected parts of the body. However, it does not always provide sufficient information to make a diagnosis. Complementary use is then made computed tomography (CT) of the pelvis. However, the use of tomography has some limitations due to the fact that administration of an iodine contrast agent is inadvisable in some people.
Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is not performed in the case of allergies to iodine or in people with goiter. Contraindications also appear in the case of women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children. Especially in such cases, it is recommended to perform magnetic resonance imaging, because the contrast agent used in this examination is based on gadolinium and less frequently causes undesirable reactions of the body.
The reason for performing an MRI of the pelvis there are not only contraindications for tomography. MRI is an effective form of multiplanar imaging. The obtained images are distinguished by good resolution and high contrast. MRI is also completely safe for most patients, so it can replace more invasive techniques used in the diagnosis of urological and oncological diseases. It allows for a detailed analysis of the genitourinary system of men and women.
- Also read: Magnetic resonance imaging – when is it worth doing and how to prepare for it?
The use of magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis
Pelvic MRI is used to detect disturbing changes, as well as to monitor the treatment already underway. Usually, MRI complements ultrasound, gynecological and cytological examinations. Usefulness of resonance it is invaluable when unambiguous interpretation of other imaging tests is impossible. On the basis of pelvic magnetic resonance imaging it is possible to detect early neoplastic changes. The obtained image also allows for qualification for further treatment and treatment planning.
Pelvic MRI enables diagnosis:
- prostate and testicular cancer;
- disturbing rectal lesions;
- endometriosis;
- cancer of the ovaries and fallopian tubes;
- cancers of the body and cervix;
- pelvic malformations;
- birth defects of the fetus – the examination is performed at the earliest in the second trimester of pregnancy.
Pelvic MRI Price it ranges from about PLN 440 to PLN 600.
- Check when a full-body MRI is recommended.
Contraindications to pelvic magnetic resonance imaging
Although MRI examination uses a magnetic field and radio waves that are harmless to the human body, so it may cause dangerous complications in contact with metal elements and electrical devices. It is for this reason contraindications for MRI they concern people who have foreign bodies in their body – metal implants, pacemakers, neurostimulators, insulin pumps, cochlear implants or metal fragments or filings in the body, especially in the eye.
The influence of the magnetic field on foreign bodies depends on its intensity. The negative consequences are the displacement of the object that is dangerous to health, as well as its heating, causing tissue burns. Before the procedure, the doctor should also inform about fixed appliances, endoprostheses, dental implants, sutures and pregnancy. They are not an absolute contraindication, but it is the specialist who will make the final decision on admission to the examination.
Additional MRI precautions for the pelvis concern the contrast medium. It rarely causes allergic reactions, but it cannot be ruled out. Before going for MRI with contrast, you must therefore go to laboratory tests and measure your creatinine level. Blood sampling should be performed a few days before the test, preferably no longer than 10 days.
Preparation for pelvic resonance imaging and the course of the examination
You can go to pelvic MRI when the doctor, after conducting an interview, qualifies you for the examination. One day before the examination, it is necessary to have a bowel movement. However, you should not completely empty your bladder immediately prior to an MRI. The patient should be on an empty stomach and have the results of other imaging tests performed at earlier stages of the diagnosis with him.
The examined person may not carry any metal elements (this also applies to clothing with buttons or zippers), magnetic cards, telephones and other electronic devices.
Duration of MRI of the pelvis is an average of 40-60 minutes. During this time, the patient lies still and carries out any orders from the medical staff. After completing the MRI examination, it takes several days for the results to appear. They are not collected immediately, because their very important element is the description, which takes some time to create.
Compare the offers of clinics that offer pelvic magnetic resonance imaging.