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Abdominal pain can have many different causes, such as gallstones, kidney stones, intestinal inflammation, or problems with the pancreas. Ultrasound and MRI are both diagnostic imaging methods used to investigate abdominal symptoms, but how do you know which examination to choose?
Ultrasound is quick to perform and completely risk-free, which is why it is often the first-line choice when evaluating abdominal pain. Ultrasound is particularly effective for examining the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and kidneys. However, the method has its limitations, and it can be difficult to visualize deeper organs and structures.
MRI takes longer to perform but provides more detailed images of the body’s soft tissues. It is often used to evaluate the intestines, pancreas, and liver, or as a complementary examination when ultrasound has not provided sufficient information. If you have complex or long-standing symptoms, MRI may be a good option for you.
What Is an Abdominal Ultrasound?
An abdominal ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging method that uses sound waves to create images of the organs in the abdominal cavity. The examination is painless and completely free of radiation.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Ultrasound
The advantage of ultrasound is that it is a fast and easily accessible method that can be repeated when needed without any risk. It is an excellent tool for evaluating symptoms related to the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and kidneys. However, the method has its limitations, and some organs or deeper structures may be difficult to assess with ultrasound. Image quality can also be affected by overweight or by gas in the intestines.
What Is an Abdominal MRI?
abdominal MRI is a method that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create highly detailed images of the soft tissues in the abdomen. The examination is painless and involves no radiation.
Advantages and Disadvantages of MRI
MRI provides more detailed images and is a very effective method for examining inflammatory conditions as well as symptoms originating from the intestines, pancreas, and liver. The method can also offer a better overall view when ultrasound is not sufficient. The downside is that the examination takes longer and may feel uncomfortable for people with claustrophobia. MRI is also not suitable for everyone, for example in cases of certain implanted metal devices.
How Do You Choose the Right Examination?
The choice of examination method depends on your symptoms and how quickly results are needed.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is often a good first choice for general abdominal complaints or if you suspect that the symptoms originate from the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, or kidneys. Symptoms may include pain or discomfort under the right rib cage, recurrent gallbladder problems, or elevated liver values.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
MRI should be considered if you have more complex or long-lasting symptoms where a more detailed view of the soft tissues is required, or if the symptoms are suspected to originate from the intestines or pancreas. MRI can also be a useful complement if you have previously undergone an ultrasound that did not provide a clear result.
If You Feel Unsure
If you are unsure which examination method is most relevant based on your symptoms, you can always contact our customer service at +46 8 14 24 49 for guidance.
When Should You Seek Medical Care?
Seek medical care if you experience abdominal pain in combination with any of the following symptoms:
- Fever, vomiting, or general malaise
- Yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes
- Unexplained weight loss
- Prolonged fatigue
- Worsening or long-lasting abdominal pain
