HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Abdomen
Results
Reference Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Opens New Window is a test done with a large machine that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the belly.
The Reference radiologist Opens New Window may discuss initial results of the MRI with you right after the test. Complete results are usually available for your doctor in 1 to 2 days.
An MRI scan can sometimes find a problem in a tissue or an organ that is not seen by Reference X-ray Opens New Window, Reference ultrasound Opens New Window, or Reference CT scan Opens New Window, even when the size and shape of the tissue or organ looks normal.
| Normal: |
The organs and blood vessels are normal in size, shape, and location. |
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No abnormal growths, such as tumors, are present. |
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No blockage is found in the ducts draining the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. |
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No blockage is found in the tubes (Reference ureters Opens New Window) that lead out of the kidneys. |
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No bleeding, abnormal collections of fluid, blockage in the flow of blood, or bulges in the blood vessels (Reference aneurysms Opens New Window) are present. |
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No signs of inflammation or infection are present. |
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| Abnormal: |
An organ is too large, too small, or in the wrong place. The MRI also may show areas of scarring or injury. |
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Growths are found, such as tumors that could be either benign or cancerous. Signs of infection may be present. |
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A collection of fluid is present, which could mean you have internal bleeding or an infection. |
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A bulge in the wall of a blood vessel (aneurysm) is present. Blockage in or narrowing of a blood vessel also may be found. |
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Blockage is present in the Reference bile Opens New Window ducts. Reasons for the blockage may include a gallstone, tumor, infection, or inflammation. |
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Blockage is present in the tubes leading from the kidneys (ureters). Reasons for the blockage may include a kidney stone, tumor, infection, or inflammation. |
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference December 9, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Paul D. Traughber, MD - Diagnostic Radiology |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
