Liver MRI Scan

Put simply, MRI scans use powerful magnets that produce a strong magnetic field that encourage the body’s own magnetic properties to align. From here, a small camera circulates the body and takes a large number of photos in quick succession.

Through the use of software, these images can be rendered together to create a 3D image. This precise reflection of the organ allows doctors to detect even minuscule abnormalities.

Sometimes, a radiologist will use a contrast agent to help make the internal structures stand out more, which assists with diagnosis. While contrast agents can be used for more types of MRIs, they’re very common with Liver MRIs. A contrast dye is usually administered as a barium meal or intravenously.

A doctor or radiologist will then study these detailed images to help them diagnose the condition that’s causing pain or discomfort.

If a doctor suspects an issue within your liver that they don’t believe a traditional x-ray would detect, they will often suggest a magnetic resonance imaging scan to confirm their suspicions. Below are some conditions a MRI liver scan can detect:

• Hepatocellular Carcinoma

• Primary liver cancer

• Focal liver lesions

• Chronic hepatitis

• Chronic hepatitis b

• Liver disease

• Liver metastases

• Hemochromatosis

If you are experiencing any of the following issues, you may be referred for a liver MRI scan:

• Abdominal pain

• Abdominal swelling

• Visiblynlarged blood vessels just beneath the skin’s surface.

• Enlarged spleen.

• Dark urine

• Abnormal coloured stools

• Fever and fatigue for an extended period of time

• A constant feeling of fullness

For most MRIs, there isn’t any special preparation required and patients can eat and drink as they please prior to their appointment. However, this is slightly different for a liver MRI. Because the liver is connected to the esophagus, many doctors will ask patients not to eat or drink anything for at least four hours before their appointment. Keep in mind, that these requirements can change between doctors, so it’s a good idea to check with your referring physician surrounding what is required.

All MRI scans require patients to remove metal objects from their bodies. This includes things like jewellery, hair pins and piercings. To help speed up the scan process, it’s a good idea to do this before you leave home. If you have an implanted metal medical device, like a pacemaker or pins and screws from a broken bone, you should let your technician know before the scan begins.

During the scan

When you arrive for a liver MRI, you will probably be required to check in with reception like a normal appointment. Once the radiologist or technician is ready for you, you’ll be taken into the MRI room where you will see a large tubular machine – this is the MRI machine.

Here, you’ll be given a hospital gown to change into. Once dressed, you’ll be asked to lay on a thin metal table. A technician will likely adjust your body so that it’s angled correctly in order to capture the image required. You’ll also be fitted with ear plugs and a buzzer, these will allow you to talk to the technician while you’re inside the machine (if required) and will also help cut out the loud noise that’s generated during the scan.

MRI machines are narrow and dark, so if you suffer from claustrophobia, you should tell your technician. They may decide to administer a sedative to help.

After this, you’ll slowly slide inside the machine and the scan will begin. While inside, it’s important to hold extremely still, as even the slightest movement can blur the image.

The technician will check to make sure the images are clear, and if they will slide you back out of the machine and you should be able to continue your day as normal.

After the scan

A MRI scan is a non-invasive procedure so, in most cases, you’ll feel completely normal afterwards. However, if you were administered a sedative to help with claustrophobia, then you must get someone to drive you home, and you’ll probably need some recovery time.

In very rare cases, patients can develop allergic reactions to MRIs. So, if you see any allergy-related symptoms, like a rash or hives, then it’s important to let a doctor know immediately.

Results from a liver MRI usually takes about one week. This gives your physician time to study the images and identify your condition. In some cases, if the condition is serious and needs immediate treatment, your results may be ready sooner.