Private abdominal MRI

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, our private abdominal MRI services provide highly detailed images of the organs and structures within your abdomen, helping clinicians diagnose a wide range of conditions safely and accurately.

    We offer specialised studies performed by experienced radiographers using advanced technology to produce clear, reliable images for your consultant.

    From preparation through to your results, we aim to make your visit as straightforward and reassuring as possible.

    • An abdominal MRI helps doctors evaluate a wide range of conditions affecting abdominal organs and blood vessels. It is commonly used to assess the health of the liver, kidneys, pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, adrenal glands, intestines, and major blood vessels.

      An abdominal MRI may be used to diagnose or monitor:

      • Liver disease, tumours or cysts
      • Kidney abnormalities
      • Pancreatic inflammation or cancer
      • Gallbladder and bile duct disorders
      • Abdominal tumours
      • Inflammatory bowel disease
      • Blood vessel abnormalities
      • Causes of unexplained abdominal pain

      Because MRI provides high-resolution images without radiation, it is especially useful for repeated imaging or for evaluating soft tissues in greater detail.

    • Our specialists will give you specific instructions before your scan.

      • In many cases, you may be asked not to eat or drink for several hours beforehand. Please contact us if you are diabetic.
      • You should inform your doctor if you are pregnant, have kidney disease, or have any implanted medical devices such as a pacemaker.

      Some abdominal MRIs require a contrast agent to improve image clarity. If contrast is used, your care team will review your medical history to ensure it is safe for you.

      You will also need to answer a questionnaire to determine if you can safely receive an MRI scan, as certain types of metal implants and devices can be affected by magnets.

    • You will need to arrive at the clinic 15 minutes prior to your appointment. A member of staff will review your completed MRI safety questionnaire.

      • You will be asked to change into a gown or clinical scrubs, as well as remove any jewellery, hearing aids or metal for safety.
      • Depending on the type of imaging you need, you may need an injection of MRI contrast dye.
      • You may also need an injection of Buscopan. Because your bowel is constantly moving while it digests your food, this movement can make the MRI images blurry. Buscopan is a medication that can help to relax these digestive muscles and make your images clearer.
      • Once you are ready, the radiographer will ask you to lay down on the scanner table and a camera will be placed above your pelvic area to capture the images.

      The MRI will then create a series of images.

    • During the scan, you will lie on a table that slides into a long tube. Once you are ready, you will be moved into position so that your abdomen is in the middle of the scanner to capture the images. You’ll need to remain still while images are taken, and you may be asked to hold your breath briefly at certain points.

      If you are claustrophobic, you may receive a mild sedative. Please contact the clinic in advance if a sedative is required. You'll be able to talk to the technician conducting the scan via a microphone. The MRI machine makes loud tapping or thumping noises during imaging. You’ll be given ear protection, and you can communicate with the technologist at any time.

      If you prefer, we'll provide earplugs and let you select music to help block the noise of the MRI.

    • Most private abdominal MRI exams take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the study and whether contrast is used.

    • After your MRI, you can usually return to your normal activities right away. If contrast was used, you may be advised to drink fluids to help your body remove it from your system. There is no recovery time needed for the scan itself.

    • At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, a specialist will carefully review your MRI images and send a detailed report to your referring doctor in 48 hours. Your doctor will discuss the results with you, explain what they mean, and recommend next steps if needed.

    Private health insurance for an abdominal MRI

    Mayo Clinic Healthcare works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA, PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay arrangements are also available.

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, you can receive second opinions on any medical condition.

    Request an abdominal MRI appointment

    Our team is available to help arrange your private abdominal MRI, answer your questions, and guide you through each step of your care.

    Whether you are seeking diagnosis, treatment or ongoing support, our imaging specialists are here to help you move forward with confidence.

    Request an appointment with us today.