MRI of the uterus, adnexa, ovaries and fallopian tubes is indicated when evaluating organ morphology for congenital abnormalities or when investigating symptoms.
It can also be used to target the pelvic bone itself for early detection of degenerative lesions.
Indications for an MRI of the Pelvis can be;
- Suspicion or follow up of known endometriosis
- Infection or inflammatory process
- Infection
- Mass or collection
- Malignant lesions of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus or adnexa
- Assessment of the extent and operability of cancerous diseases
- Fistulas
- Prolapse
- Pelvimetry (see below)
Pelvic MRI is also used in pregnancy to evaluate suspected fetal conditions and to determine mothers pelvic dimension and is considered safe during the second and third trimester of pregnancy as no ionising radiation is used.
MRI has been used to detect abnormalities in pregnant women for many years and the potential effects of the scans during pregnancy have been investigated many times.
The scan can be targeted as a Uterine or Ovarian MRI, or inclusive of the adnexa, Pouch of Douglas and vagina as well.
MRI is also performed to fully visualise the adnexa (the area surrounding the uterus holding the ovaries and fallopian tubes), uterus and ovaries in patients where these are poorly seen on an ultrasound examination.
Contrast (dye)
Some symptoms and illnesses can be hard to detect even on a MRI scan and require injection of dye (contrast) before or during the scan.
It is particularly helpful in the following conditions:
- Tumours
- Inflammation
- Blood vessels
- Distinguishing between scar tissue and normal organ tissue
The injection is considered very safe for most and you will complete a safety questionnaire detailing your medical history before. The contrast agent (dye) is Gadolinium based and most of it is removed by your kidneys within the next day.
Read more about Gadolinium contrast dye