A Pelvic Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of structures within the lower torso, including the reproductive organs, bladder, and bowel. The non-invasive procedure offers clear, cross-sectional views of soft tissues without using radiation. While the MRI machine is large, your whole body does not need to go inside, as the imaging focus is highly specific to the lower half of the body.
The Physical Positioning Inside the Machine
For a pelvic MRI, the patient lies on a narrow table that slides into the bore, or tunnel, of the scanner. The table moves until the pelvic region is precisely centered within the machine’s primary magnetic field to ensure the clearest possible images. Specialized devices called coils, which help send and receive the radio wave signals, are often placed around the hip and pelvic area. Depending on the size of the machine and the patient, the head and upper body may remain outside of the narrowest part of the bore.
Preparing for the Pelvic MRI
Preparation for the scan begins with a safety check, as the strong magnetic field poses a serious risk with metallic objects. Patients must remove all metal items, including jewelry, watches, hearing aids, and clothing with metal fasteners, and should change into a hospital gown. It is crucial to inform the technologist about any internal metal, such as pacemakers, aneurysm clips, orthopedic hardware, or shrapnel, as many of these are incompatible with the MRI environment. Specific instructions regarding food, drink, or bladder fullness may be given depending on the exact purpose of the scan. For some pelvic exams, patients may be asked to fast for a few hours beforehand to minimize movement from digestion. Conversely, an exam targeting the urinary bladder may require the patient to have a full bladder for better visualization.
The Experience During the Scan
Once positioned, the experience inside the machine is characterized by loud, repetitive noises caused by the rapid switching of magnetic gradient coils during image acquisition. To protect hearing, the technologist will provide earplugs or headphones, often with the option for music. The duration of a pelvic MRI typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, and the quality of the images depends entirely on remaining completely still throughout this time. The technologist monitors the patient from an adjacent room and communicates via an intercom system, and the patient is given a call button to signal for assistance if needed.
Understanding Contrast Agents
A contrast agent, most commonly a Gadolinium-based solution, may be used to enhance the visibility of specific tissues or abnormalities, such as blood flow, inflammation, or the boundaries of a lesion. The contrast is administered through an intravenous (IV) line, typically placed in a vein in the hand or arm, often midway through the scan. Gadolinium works by briefly altering the magnetic properties of water molecules in the body, which makes certain structures appear brighter on the resulting images. The contrast is quickly filtered out of the body by the kidneys following the procedure.