Author: rad40

How will I receive the results of my small bowel MRI scan?
The results of your small bowel MRI scan will not be available immediately. The results will be sent to the clinician/surgeon who referred you for the scan.
It is important to tell your doctor and / or contact the MRI department on 01-8094826 PRIOR to your scan appointment if you have or have had any of the following:
A pacemaker
An artificial heart valve
Aneurysm Clips (these are metal clips that are inserted during some operations, especially in the blood vessels or the brain).
Metal fragments in the eye, head or body (if you suspect that a metal fragment may have entered your eye, particularly if you have ever worked with a lathe or metal grinding equipment, please contact us for advice)
Reprogrammable shunt
Vagal Nerve Stimulator
Any surgery in the six weeks prior to your appointment

Any surgery which involved placing implants in your head or body
If you are or may be pregnant
Directions (MRI Beaumont Hospital)
The MRI Department is located in the radiology department on the lower ground floor of the hospital. Please check in at the main x-ray reception desk on arrival.

Date Issued: August 2021
Review date: August 2023
Author(s): Radiography Management Team
Approved by: Imaging and Interventional Radiology Directorate Team

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Beaumont Hospital
Imaging and Interventional
Radiology Directorate
Small Bowel MRI Scan
Patient Information

Welcome to the
MRI
Department

Important Note
Please check your appointment letter as to whether your MRI examination appointment is scheduled for Beaumont Hospital or for MRI in St. Lukes Radiation oncology centre located on Beaumont Campus

Introduction
A small bowel MRI scan has been requested for you and this leaflet explains what this scan involves
What is a small bowel MRI scan?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a strong magnetic field to produce high quality images in multiple planes or directions. The images are generated using superconducting magnets and pulsed radio waves. Magnetic resonance imaging uses non ionising radiation, unlike x-rays which use radiation. A small bowel MRI is a special type of MRI performed with a contrast material to produce detailed images of the small intestine.
Is an MRI scan safe?
Because of the strong magnetic field used to produce the MR image some people are not suitable for scanning by MRI. It is important for us to know if you have metallic/electrical implants or have had certain operations. Therefore you will be asked to complete an MRI safety questionnaire prior to your MR examination to determine if it is safe for you to proceed with your MR scan. If you have any queries or doubts when filling out the questionnaire please consult the radiographer prior to your scan.

What happens during the small bowel MRI scan?
You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for your MRI. The MRI scanner is a circular brightly lit machine with a wide central core that is open at both ends. The radiographer will position you on the MR table either head first or feet first depending on the type of scan you are having done. The MR table will slide slowly into the MR scanner so that the part of your body to be scanned is in the centre of the magnet bore. As the MR scan is very noisy we will provide you with ear protection. We can play music via the radio or a CD during the scan if you wish. We can see and hear you during the scan and you will be provided with an emergency button which you can press if you need assistance. It is important to remain very still during the scan. There are no after-effects from an MR scan.
How long will it take to perform the MRI scan?
Prepare to be in the MRI department for about 2 hours. This includes drinking time, preparation time and scan time. As Beaumont is an acute hospital there may be occasions when other patients may need to be scanned urgently which could mean a delay to your appointment.
Will I need an injection?
In order to obtain the best images possible you will receive an intravenous injection of Buscopan halfway through your scan. This injection slows down the motion of the bowel and allows us to get clearer images. Please inform staff if you have any history of glaucoma or heart disease. Although rare, this injection can cause blurred vision for up to 40 minutes after injection. You will be required to remain in the department, if this happens, until blurred vision clears. You may drive home after this period. A small needle will also be placed in your arm or hand prior to the scan in order to give a contrast dye that highlights the walls of the small bowel.
What preparation is needed for a small bowel scan?
Because of the strong magnetic field you will be asked to remove any metal objects such as jewellery, hearing aids, etc. You must not eat or drink for 6 hours prior to your appointment time. You are asked to arrive one hour prior to examination time. Over this period you must drink 1 litre of a solution called Kleen Prep. This will be given to you prior to your scan. This fluid can have a mild laxative effect for approximately 12 hours afterwards.
Prior to entering the MRI scanning room you will be asked to remove any metallic items from your body such as jewellery, hair pins, hearing aids, mobile phones, coins and credit cards.
Please read your appointment letter carefully and completely. If you have any queries regarding implants, operations, your appointment time or if you are pregnant please contact the MRI department on 01-8094826 / 4827