Pelvis MRI can be used to examine both the internal organs located in the pelvis and the bony structures of the pelvic wings, sacrum and the SI joints connecting the sacrum to the pelvis. It is also useful for investigating pain arising from the coccal area (coccyx, also known as the tailbone), hip pain and lower back pain.
Please see MRI Spine for more information on the neck, thoracic or lower back MRI
MRI of the pelvis is often indicated when looking for organ morphology for congenital abnormalities or pathology, such as:
- Hernias (inguinal hernia)
- Tumours (benign or malignant lesions)
- Inflammatory disease
- Osteonecrosis (of the hip joints)
- Bone marrow disease
MRI of the lower abdomen is particularly beneficial in visualising the reproductive organs (female / male internal genitalia) as there is no radiation involved and the organs can be difficult to picture on other modalities.
The Pelvis MRI is tailored to best visualise the target organ or region:
The technique allows imaging in great detail of the associated blood vessels, ligaments and connective tissue that make up the pelvic girdle without obstructing pelvic bone, symphysis, gas and fecal material in the bowels.
Information on MRI Hip Joint can be found
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