Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (organs of the lesser pelvis)
Pelvic MRI in Casablanca
Pelvic MRI examines the organs of the lesser pelvis, the lower part of the abdomen: the bladder, the rectum and, depending on the case, the uterus and ovaries in women or the prostate and seminal vesicles in men. The bones of the pelvis are covered by a different exam, the bony pelvis MRI. Without X-rays, it provides high-contrast images of the soft tissues and helps explain pain, clarify an abnormality seen on ultrasound or assess a disease of these organs.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
The exam usually takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the number of sequences requested.
Report turnaround
Report within 48 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
GE SIGNA Prime 1.5 T
When is this exam needed?
- Endometriosis assessment, especially before surgery.
- Ovarian cyst or mass seen on ultrasound, to be characterized.
- Mapping of uterine fibroids before treatment.
- Local assessment of cancer of the uterus (cervix or body) or of the rectum.
- Chronic pelvic pain that ultrasound does not explain.
- Looking for a fistula or an abscess around the anus.
How the exam is done
After the safety questionnaire, you are told whether to go to the toilet, because bladder filling follows the protocol. Depending on the indication, a small enema or a gel placed in the vagina or rectum may be offered to distend these organs; it is explained to you beforehand and is done only with your consent.
You lie on your back, with a coil on your lower abdomen. The sequences are taken in several directions, with loud noise. Stay still and breathe calmly, without jerky movements. A gadolinium injection may complete the exam, then you can return to your normal activities.
Preparation
- Follow the instructions you receive for your bladder: empty or moderately full, depending on the protocol.
- For some indications, a rectal preparation (small enema) will be explained to you in advance.
- Tell us if you have an IUD: it is usually compatible with MRI, but the radiologist needs to know.
- Note the date of your last period, which is useful for interpretation and to rule out pregnancy.
Fasting
No fasting is needed for this MRI: eat and drink as usual.
Contrast injection
Gadolinium is injected into a vein in the arm for many indications, for example the assessment of an ovarian mass or a cancer. For others, such as some endometriosis assessments, it is not always necessary.
Contraindications and precautions
- Pacemaker, defibrillator, neurostimulator (including bladder stimulators) or cochlear implant: the exam depends on the compatibility of the device.
- Metal fragment in the eye, old aneurysm clip, implanted pump.
- Insulin pump or glucose sensor (such as FreeStyle Libre): to be removed before the exam. Bring what you need to replace it or put it back afterwards.
- Current or possible pregnancy: please tell us. MRI is performed only if it is necessary, preferably after the first trimester, and without gadolinium unless absolutely necessary.
- Breastfeeding: please tell us. It is generally not necessary to stop breastfeeding after a gadolinium injection.
- Severe kidney failure, when an injection is planned.
- Claustrophobia, tattoos or permanent makeup.
Documents to bring
- Prescription
- Recent pelvic or transvaginal ultrasounds, with reports
- Any surgical or endoscopy reports
- List of medications, including any hormone treatment
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
- Recent creatinine test if an injection is planned
Price and insurance coverage
The price of a pelvic MRI depends on the gadolinium injection, which is needed for many assessments but not always for some endometriosis assessments.
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Pelvic MRI or bony pelvis MRI: which one applies to me?
Pelvic MRI looks at the organs of the lesser pelvis: bladder, uterus, ovaries, prostate, rectum. Bony pelvis MRI focuses on the bones and joints, such as the hips or the sacrum. The wording on your prescription is what counts; if in doubt, contact the center before coming.
Can the exam be done during my period?
Yes, your period does not prevent the exam. For some indications, such as endometriosis, the doctor may prefer a specific time in the cycle. If you are wearing a tampon or a menstrual cup, tell the radiographer, who will tell you whether to remove it.
Is the vaginal or rectal gel mandatory?
No, it is only used for certain indications, for example to see endometriosis or a tumor of the cervix more clearly. It is a water-based gel, inserted with a small cannula, without pain. You can refuse it: the radiologist will then adapt the exam.
Should I come with someone?
This is usually not necessary. Someone accompanying you can help if the exam makes you very anxious.
Pelvic MRI in Casablanca: how much does it cost?
The price of a pelvic MRI depends on the gadolinium injection, which is needed for many assessments but not always for some endometriosis assessments. The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.