Abdominal MRI – what can the examination show (and not show)?

Contrast agents are sometimes used during an MRI scan to improve image quality and more clearly distinguish different tissues. This makes it easier to detect tumors, inflammation, vascular changes or other abnormalities that may otherwise be difficult to see.

MRI contrast usually contains the substance gadolinium, which is injected into a blood vessel in the arm. The agent spreads via the bloodstream and makes certain structures, such as blood vessels and tumor tissue, appear more clearly in the images.

Contrast agents are only used when necessary – for example, if changes in the brain, spinal cord, certain organs or blood vessels are suspected. It is generally very safe, but patients with severely impaired kidney function may need to be assessed specifically before use.

MRI scanning (magnetic resonance imaging) is a very safe and gentle method. Unlike regular X-rays or computed tomography (CT), no X-rays are used. Instead, images are created using powerful magnetic fields and radio waves, which makes MRI completely radiation-free.

MRI is used daily in healthcare and has no known long-term side effects in healthy people. The examination is therefore safe to perform even on repeated occasions or for sensitive groups, such as children or pregnant women after week 12 - if there is a medical indication.

There are certain restrictions on metal in the body, such as pacemakers, implants or old surgical clips, because the magnetic field can affect these. Therefore, all patients must fill out a safety form before the examination. MRI is also safe for the vast majority of people with claustrophobia, but you can be sedated before the examination if necessary.

Yes, according to Swedish law, a medical referral is required to perform an MRI examination. When you book through us, the referral is included in your order, so you do not need to contact a health center or other healthcare provider while waiting for the referral to be issued.

After you have chosen the type of MRI scan you want to perform, we issue the referral as your referrer. Once the purchase is complete, you simply activate the referral yourself via our digital sample response service. In connection with the activation, you are allowed to choose the clinic (hospital or X-ray unit) where the examination will be performed.

You are also required to answer a number of mandatory medical questions that are sent with the referral, for example if you have implants, medical conditions or allergies. This information is important for your safety and for the clinic to be able to plan the examination correctly. When the referral is activated, it is sent directly to the clinic you have chosen. You will then receive an invitation for your MRI examination. Everything happens digitally – safely, quickly and without detours via the health center.

Yes, cancer can often be detected with the help of an MRI scan (magnetic resonance imaging). MRI is one of the most advanced methods for visualizing soft tissues, organs, bones and the nervous system – and provides very detailed images without using X-rays.

MRI is often used when tumors in the brain, spine, prostate, liver, pancreas, ovaries or other organs are suspected. The examination helps the doctor see the size, shape, spread and relationship of the tumor to surrounding tissue.

It is important to know that MRI alone cannot always confirm whether a change is benign or malignant. In some cases, additional investigation with biopsy, blood tests or other imaging methods is needed. However, MRI is often the best first step when cancer is suspected.