An MRE examination shows detailed images of the small bowel. We use the MRI scanner, plus a contrast agent and a muscle relaxant to provide these images.

If you have questions about the procedure itself, please call us to speak with our Radiologist.

Why am I having this procedure?

In the first instance, chat to your referrer about why they have referred you for this procedure.

• Small bowel abnormalities – perhaps seen on colonoscopy

• Crohns Disease

• Gastric discomfort, irritation, swelling or blockages

• Internal bleeding

• Small tears in intestinal wall
  

How do I prepare for this procedure?

Contraindications or Cautions

It is very important you let us know PRIOR to the procedure if you have any of the following:

• Pacemaker (This means we are unable to scan you at Absolute Radiology)

• Other cardiac surgery i.e stents, valves etc are safe to scan but please inform us of these in advance of your appointment.

• Pregnant or think you may be pregnant

• Any allergies

• Type 1 diabetes, or if you take insulin

• Overactive thyroid gland

• Kidney or renal function issues
  

Prior to the procedure

Make sure you understand why you are having this procedure.  If you have any concerns or questions, please contact us for information and advice prior to your appointment.

• You will be required to fast for 6 hours prior to the examination.  This means nothing to eat or drink.

• Do not stop any medication, take with a small sip of water if necessary

• Please remove all jewellery and piercings PRIOR to coming for your scan.
  

On the day of your procedure

You will be asked to arrive 1 hour prior to your appointment time. It is important to adhere to this arrival time as we need time to prep you for the procedure.  During this time we will:

• Ask you to fill in safety forms that will be checked with a nurse or radiographer

• Explain the use of Buscopan and contrast agent that will be given

• Ask you to change into a gown

• Ask you to drink a solution of mannitol and water

• Put in an IV cannula (IV line)
  

During the Procedure

• You will be asked to lie on the MRI bed on your stomach

• The MRI staff will advise you of the breathing instructions

• Part way through the scan we will give you an injection of Buscopan

• This will be followed by the injection of contrast agent

• The time on the scanner will be 20-30 minutes

• You will be given an emergency buzzer to contact us at any time throughout the procedure.
  

Post Procedure

It is important to know that after this procedure you will experience loose bowel motions

It is advisable to return home immediately after the procedure and continue to drink water for the rest of the day to eliminate as much of the liquid from your system.

The images and report will be sent to your referring consultant and a copy will be sent to your GP.

If you require the report to go anywhere else, please advise our reception staff on the patient information questionnaire given to you on arrival.

If you have any questions prior to your appointment, please call us to speak to our nurse.