MRI of the pelvic organs

MRI of the pelvic organs is a modern imaging method that allows a detailed assessment of the condition of internal organs and soft tissues in this area. Magnetic resonance imaging provides high image accuracy and helps detect changes that may be barely noticeable during other examination methods.

At the medical center “Oxford Medical”, examinations are performed on a modern GE SIGNA™ Champion tomograph. The equipment is equipped with artificial intelligence technologies AI Recon DL, which improve image clarity and ensure consistently high scanning quality. This makes it possible to obtain the most accurate results and increases the informativeness of further diagnostics.

You can sign up for an MRI at a time convenient for you by phone or through the form on the website of the clinic “Oxford Medical”.

The examination may be prescribed both for a woman and for a man depending on the clinical situation.

In women, during pelvic MRI, the following are evaluated:

• the uterus and its structure;
• the ovaries and adjacent tissues;
• the urinary bladder;
• the rectum and surrounding tissues;
• the pelvic lymph nodes and soft tissues of the pelvis.

In men, the examination covers:

• the prostate gland (prostate);
• the seminal vesicles;
• the urinary bladder;
• the rectum and surrounding structures;
• the pelvic lymph nodes and soft tissues.

This approach makes it possible to comprehensively assess the anatomical area, detect pathological changes, determine their localization and extent. If necessary, the doctor may additionally pay attention to other structures of the pelvis depending on the clinical situation.

The examination makes it possible to detect:

• inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs;
• benign and malignant neoplasms;
• endometriosis, fibroids, and other gynecological diseases;
• changes in the prostate gland, in particular hyperplasia;
• circulatory disorders and congestive phenomena;
• consequences of injuries or surgical interventions;
• damage to the lymph nodes and spread of the pathological process;
• congenital anomalies of the development of the pelvic organs.

The obtained images enable the doctor not only to detect pathology, but also to assess its nature, boundaries, and impact on adjacent structures. This is especially important when planning treatment or observing over time, when it is necessary to understand how the condition changes over time.

In women, MRI is widely used to assess various gynecological conditions. The examination makes it possible to detect inflammatory processes, endometriosis, myomatous nodes, congenital developmental anomalies, as well as adnexal masses. In particular, during the examination it is possible to assess in detail the size, structure, and features of such a condition as an ovarian cyst, as well as to distinguish functional changes from pathological ones and determine further treatment tactics.

In men, pelvic MRI is used for a comprehensive assessment of the organs of the genitourinary system and adjacent structures. The examination makes it possible to assess the condition of the urinary bladder, rectum, surrounding tissues, and pelvic lymph nodes.

Special attention is paid to the prostate gland, since MRI is one of the most informative methods of its visualization. The method helps detect inflammatory changes, benign hyperplasia, disturbances in tissue structure, and also clarify the nature of neoplasms. In particular, the examination is important in the diagnosis and staging of conditions such as a malignant tumor of the prostate, since it makes it possible to assess its boundaries, extent, and possible involvement of the surrounding tissues.

In some cases, to increase diagnostic accuracy, the doctor may recommend pelvic MRI with contrast. During such an examination, a contrast agent is administered intravenously, which improves tissue visualization and allows a clearer assessment of their structure.

Contrast enhancement is used when it is necessary to:

• clarify the nature of the neoplasm (benign or malignant);
• determine the boundaries of the tumor and the extent of its spread;
• assess the involvement of surrounding tissues and lymph nodes;
• detect recurrence of the disease after the treatment performed;
• distinguish postoperative or scar changes from new or active pathological changes;
• clarify the activity of the inflammatory process.

The contrast agent accumulates in tissues with increased blood supply, which makes it possible to detect pathological foci more accurately and assess their nature. This is especially important when malignancy is suspected or when detailed treatment planning is needed.

MRI of the pelvic organs is a safe diagnostic method, however, in some cases its performance may be limited. This is due to the use of a powerful magnetic field, which may interact with metal structures and electronic devices in the body.

Absolute contraindications include:

• the presence of a pacemaker or an implanted cardioverter-defibrillator;
• cochlear implants;
• ferromagnetic vascular clips;
• metal foreign bodies in the body, especially in the eye area;
• implanted devices or structures whose compatibility with MRI has not been confirmed.

Relative limitations include:

• the first trimester of pregnancy;
• pronounced claustrophobia;
• inability to remain still during the examination;
• significant pain syndrome or other conditions that complicate the procedure.

If an examination with contrast enhancement is planned, kidney function is additionally assessed. In case of pronounced impairment of their function, the administration of a contrast agent may be limited or contraindicated.

In each case, the possibility of conducting the examination is determined individually, taking into account the patient's condition and the existing risk factors.

Preparation for MRI of the pelvic organs depends on the purpose of the examination and the clinical task. Following simple recommendations helps to obtain more accurate and informative results.

Usually, before the examination, it is recommended to:

• refrain from eating for 3–4 hours before the procedure, especially if contrast enhancement is planned;
• if possible, limit foods that cause increased gas formation;
• on the doctor's recommendation, perform light bowel cleansing;
• come to the examination with a moderately filled urinary bladder (if this is indicated by the doctor);
• inform the specialist about the presence of implants, prostheses, or previous surgeries.

Immediately before the examination, it is necessary to remove all metal objects — jewelry, watches, glasses, and other accessories that may affect the quality of the images.

If an examination with a contrast agent is planned, the doctor may preliminarily prescribe tests to assess kidney function. Usually, this is a blood test for creatinine and calculation of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). These indicators make it possible to assess how well the kidneys are working, since the contrast agent is excreted from the body precisely through them.

Before the examination begins, the patient lies down on a special movable table of the tomograph. To obtain clear and accurate images, it is important to remain still during the scanning.

After preparation, the table smoothly moves inside the machine, and the examination begins. During the operation of the tomograph, characteristic rhythmic sounds are heard — this is a normal feature of the process. The procedure is painless and does not cause unpleasant sensations.

During MRI, a series of layer-by-layer images is performed, which allows a detailed assessment of the condition of the pelvic organs, surrounding tissues, and vessels. If necessary, the examination may be performed with contrast enhancement: first, images are taken without the contrast agent, after which the drug is administered intravenously and the scanning is continued.

The duration of the procedure usually is 20–30 minutes. If contrast is used, the examination may last up to 30–40 minutes.

After the examination is completed, the radiologist analyzes the obtained images and prepares a written report. It describes the detected changes, their localization and nature, or indicates the absence of pathology. The results are given to the patient for further consultation with the doctor.

The cost of MRI of the pelvic organs depends on the scope of the examination and the need to use a contrast agent. An examination with contrast enhancement is more extensive, since it involves additional administration of the agent and a more detailed analysis of the obtained images, therefore its price may be somewhat higher.

You can find the current prices here. To book an examination at the private clinic “Oxford Medical” in Kyiv, call the contact center or leave a request for a callback — we will help you choose a time convenient for you.