Magnetic Resonance Cholangiography, also known as MR cholangiography or cholangio-MRI, is a non-invasive imaging exam used to study the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts in great detail, without the use of ionizing radiation. It is especially useful in the diagnosis of obstructions, stones, inflammation, strictures or tumors of the biliary and pancreatic ducts.
What is Magnetic Resonance Cholangiography?
MR cholangiography is an MRI technique focused on the study of the intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts, as well as the pancreatic duct. It is a non-invasive alternative to ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography), allowing assessment of the anatomy and any changes in the biliary and pancreatic system, without the need for sedation or endoscopic instrumentation.
What is the price of MR Cholangiography?
The price of MR cholangiography is €305 when performed on a private basis. However, it can also be performed through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: If MR cholangiography is performed through 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, and other insurers.
- Health Plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, and other health plans.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. In the case of MR cholangiography, the price through protocol is €220.
The price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance you use.
Learn more about MRI prices.
How is it performed?
The patient is positioned lying on their back, with a coil placed over the abdominal region.
In many cases, fasting for several hours (4 to 6 hours) is required to ensure good distension of the biliary ducts (you will be informed when scheduling).
The exam is generally performed without contrast, although contrast may be used in specific situations, such as the assessment of tumoral lesions.
The average duration of the exam is 20 to 30 minutes and requires cooperation with short breath-holds.
Earplugs are provided to reduce perception of the equipment noise.
The MRI scanner is open at both ends.
What does it detect?
MR cholangiography allows the detection of:
- Biliary stones (lithiasis) in the bile ducts or gallbladder;
- Strictures or narrowings of the bile ducts;
- Dilation of the bile ducts (e.g., due to obstruction or compression);
- Tumors of the pancreas, bile ducts or ampulla of Vater;
- Chronic pancreatitis and changes in the pancreatic duct;
- Post-surgical complications (e.g., fistulas, anastomotic strictures);
- Congenital anomalies of the bile ducts;
- Among others.
When is it indicated?
MR cholangiography is generally indicated in situations such as:
- Assessment of abdominal pain or jaundice of unknown cause;
- Suspected obstruction of the biliary or pancreatic ducts;
- Study of biliary lithiasis not visible on ultrasound;
- Study of acute or chronic pancreatitis;
- Assessment of pancreatic or biliary tumoral lesions;
- Postoperative assessment of biliary reconstructions;
- Alternative to ERCP when it is not recommended;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for MR Cholangiography
Before undergoing MRI at NRD, please consider the following factors:
| Topic | Guideline |
| Exam Prescription (paper form) | You must bring the Exam Prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | In some cases, fasting for several hours (4 to 6 hours) is required to ensure good distension of the bile ducts (you will be informed when scheduling). |
| Early arrival | Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take essential medication with a minimal 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. |
| Previous exams / Tests / Info | Bring previous exams, relevant clinical information and recent laboratory tests. |
| Glucose monitoring implant | Do not place the implant, as it will need to be removed before the exam. |
| Makeup | Do not wear makeup, as some products may interfere with the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopedic prostheses, bring documentation describing their material and composition. |
| Hearing aids | Inform the clinic if you use a hearing aid, as it must be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform the clinic if you use a dental prosthesis, as it must be removed before the exam. Also inform them if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform the clinic if you have orthodontic appliances. A test may be required to assess compatibility with MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI on people with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g., cochlear implants). The exam should be performed in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technician responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be available for you to activate if needed.
You must remain still during the exam to ensure image quality.
The entire NRD team will be available to answer any questions you may have.
After the exam, you may resume your normal routine.
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 format at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take home a CD with the images.
Where to do it?
MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (Next to Praça de Espanha)