What do the results of an abdominal MRI scan mean?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test done with a large machine that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the belly. The radiologist may discuss initial results of the MRI with you right after the test. Complete results are usually available for your doctor in 1 to 2 days.

An MRI scan can sometimes find a problem in a tissue or an organ that is not seen by X-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan, even when the size and shape of the tissue or organ looks normal.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the abdomen

Normal:

• The organs and blood vessels are normal in size, shape and location.
• No abnormal growths, such as tumors, are present.
• No blockage is found in the ducts draining the liver, gallbladder or pancreas.
• No blockage is found in the tubes ( ureters ) that lead out of the kidneys.
• No bleeding, abnormal collections of fluid, blockage in the flow of blood or bulges in the blood vessels ( aneurysms ) are present.
• No signs of inflammation or infection are present.

• An organ is too large, too small or in the wrong place. The MRI also may show areas of scarring or injury.
• Growths are found, such as tumors that could be either benign or cancerous. Signs of infection may be present.
• A collection of fluid is present, which could mean you have internal bleeding or an infection.
• A bulge in the wall of a blood vessel (aneurysm) is present. Blockage in or narrowing of a blood vessel also may be found.
• Blockage is present in the bile ducts. Reasons for the blockage may include a gallstone, tumor, infection or inflammation.
• Blockage is present in the tubes leading from the kidneys (ureters). Reasons for the blockage may include a kidney stone, tumor, infection or inflammation.