MRI for the diagnosis of Crohn's

Magnetic Resonance for the diagnosis of Crohn’s is a non-invasive diagnostic technique that, through the use of powerful magnets and radio waves, allows detailed images of the interior of the intestine to be obtained to assess the level of inflammation of the layers of the intestinal wall. This technique is used for the diagnosis of various types of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease, a pathology that appears when the person’s own immune system attacks the intestine, causing inflammation. The most affected part is usually the ileum or final section of the small intestine, although it can appear anywhere in the digestive tract.

MRI for the diagnosis of Crohn's

What does it consist of?

To carry out the test, you must remain stretched out on your back with your head resting on a cushion and a radiologist will administer a contrast medium orally to mark the area to be studied. Next, the stretcher will move until the abdominal area is in the center of the resonance equipment. The test can last from 20 to 45 minutes. During this time, you will have to remain as calm as possible, since the taking of images is not continuous, but different image planes are made. Once finished you can continue with your daily life as normal.

Cases in which it is recommended

Who is it for?

MRI for the diagnosis of Crohn’s is mainly indicated in the following cases:

Patients with symptoms of diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, weight loss and lack of appetite.
People suffering from intestinal obstruction and bleeding in the stool.
Patients with a family history of Crohn’s disease or another type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The characteristic symptoms that make one suspect the presence of this disease are highly variable depending on the area where it is focused, so it is important to consult with a specialist in gastroenterology to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

INSTRUCTIONS

How should you prepare?

First of all, you must go fasting for a minimum of 6 hours. Next, they will administer a contrast medium orally to mark the area to be studied. Subsequently, you should be stretched out in the MRI for 20-45 minutes, remaining as calm as possible during the entire examination.

Metallic objects: The technician will give you the necessary instructions, provide you with a gown, and ask you to remove any metallic objects (jewelry, watches, piercings, hairpins, mobile phones, dental prostheses, and hearing aids).
Cardiac devices: It is important that you inform the technician about any device that you have implanted in your body (pacemakers, electrodes and clips from previous surgeries).
Test duration: The test can last from 20 to 45 minutes depending on the study being performed. During this time it is important that you remain still.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to remove contrast from the body.

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