Abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, radiation-free imaging exam that allows detailed visualization of organs such as the liver, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, gallbladder, adrenal glands and vascular structures. It is essential for the diagnosis and staging of intra-abdominal and pelvic diseases.
What is an Abdominal MRI?
Abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to obtain high-resolution images of intra-abdominal organs and the pelvis. It allows precise differentiation of soft tissues and characterization of lesions that are not visible on other exams such as ultrasound, X-ray or computed tomography (CT).
What is the price of an Abdominal MRI?
The price of an abdominal MRI is 275€, when performed on a private basis. However, it can also be carried out through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: If the abdominal MRI is performed under ADSE, the patient only pays a fee of 30€;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers.
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For an abdominal MRI, the price through protocol is 220€.
The price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance you wish to use.
Find out more about the price of MRI exams.
How is it performed?
The patient is positioned lying on their back with a coil placed over the abdomen to obtain detailed images of the area being studied. Sequences are acquired in several directions in order to obtain thin, detailed slices.
The MRI scanner is open at both ends.
Intravenous contrast (gadolinium) may be administered in situations such as the assessment of tumours, inflammation or vascular complications.
During the exam, it is essential to remain still.
During the exam, earplugs are provided to reduce the perception of scanner noise.
The duration varies according to the protocol, usually between 30 and 45 minutes, and may be longer if contrast is used.
What does it detect?
Abdominal MRI allows the detection of:
- Benign or malignant liver lesions, such as hemangiomas and carcinomas;
- Chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and steatosis;
- Changes in the biliary and pancreatic systems, such as lithiasis or tumours;
- Renal or adrenal masses;
- Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g. Crohn’s disease), fistulas or abscesses;
- Lymphadenopathy, metastases or peritoneal disease;
- Vascular changes, such as arterial thrombosis or aneurysms;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Abdominal MRI may be indicated in the following cases:
- Hepatic or pancreatic lesions not fully clarified by ultrasound or CT;
- Abdominal tumours or assessment of metastases;
- Inflammatory bowel disease or perianal complications;
- Preoperative assessment of abscesses or fistulas;
- Abdominal vascular assessment (for example, aorta, renal veins);
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for an Abdominal MRI
Before undergoing an MRI at NRD, please consider the following:
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You must bring the exam prescription in paper form. |
| Fasting | In cases where it is performed with contrast, fasting for about 3 hours is usually necessary (this will be confirmed when the exam is booked). |
| Early arrival | Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take essential and unavoidable medication with a minimum amount of water. |
| Metal objects | Remove all metal objects (e.g. earrings, bracelets, necklaces, piercings, hairpins, removable prostheses, etc.). |
| Pregnancy | Inform the NRD healthcare professional if you are pregnant. |
| Exams / Tests / Info | Bring previous imaging exams, relevant clinical information and recent laboratory tests. |
| Glucose monitoring implant | Do not place the implant, as it will have to be removed before the exam. |
| Make-up | Do not wear make-up, as some products may affect the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses, bring proof describing and specifying the material composition. |
| Hearing aids | Inform us if you use a hearing aid, as it must be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform us if you use a dental prosthesis, as it must be removed before the exam. Also inform us if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform us if you wear orthodontic appliances. A test may be necessary to assess compatibility with MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI exams on people with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g. cochlear implant), and it is recommended that the exam be carried out in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technologist responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be at your disposal, which you can activate if needed.
You should remain still during the exam to ensure high-quality images.
The entire NRD team will be at your disposal to answer any questions that may arise.
After the exam, you can return to your usual daily activities.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the MRI results within 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper form at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take a CD with the images with you.
Where can you have an abdominal MRI?
An abdominal MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, r/c, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (near Praça de Espanha)