MRI Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatogram (MRCP)

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatogram (MRCP) is a non-invasive scan that creates images of the hepatobiliary and pancreatic system including the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas and pancreatic duct.

A MRCP is performed to:

• Examine diseases of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas and pancreatic duct,
• Evaluate tumours, stones, inflammation or infection,
• Evaluate patients with pancreatitis to detect the underlying cause,
• Help to diagnose unexplained abdominal pain.

You will need to arrive 1hr 30 minutes before your appointment time to allow preparation for your examination

This test requires having oral contrast which will help to view inside the intestine. You will be given a cup of oral contrast to consumer every 10 minutes for 50minutes and the scan will commence 20 minutes after the last drink.

Bring any previous imaging with you that is relevant to the area we are scanning, such as x-rays, CT scan and any previous MRI's you may have had.

All patients (except for diabetics) are required to fast for four (4) hours prior to your appointment time. You may drink clear fluids but do not eat.

As the MRI uses a very strong magnet, no metallic objects or mechanical devices can enter the imaging room. You may want to keep this in mind when deciding what to wear to your appointment.

Below is a list of suggestion to help you prepare for your appointment:

• Clothing: it is best to wear something light weight and comfortable that is easy to take on and off if needed. Avoid wearing items of clothing that has metal buttons, zippers or hooks
• Jewellery: All metal jewellery and watches MUST be removed.
• Hair accessories: Any clips, ties, or pins that are made of metal or have metal parts attached to them MUST be removed.
• Make-up: some make-up, particularly mascara, is made with a metallic base, it is best not to wear any make-up on the day of your procedure.
• Dental devices: If you wear dentures, or a partial plate, they MUST be removed (if possible) before the scan.
• Special consideration: because we use a strong magnet in the MRI, patients who have pacemakers CANNOT have an MRI scan.

You will be asked to complete an MRI Patient screening form prior to you exam. (link to MRI Screening safety form)

Additional information or testing may be needed prior to your MRI scan to ensure that it is safe for you to have this test, especially:

• If you have any other implanted medical devices such as cochlear implants, aneurysm clips, artificial heart valves, or an intra-vascular stent.
• If you have ever been hit in the eye or face with metal or metal shavings, or shot with a gun.

You will need to remove any items of clothing with metallic objects such as belts, bras and zippers. You will be given a hospital gown to wear if required. You will be allocated a locker for your personal belongings to be kept safe during the MRI scan.

During the MRI exam, you will be lying on a firm table. A piece of equipment called a coil will be placed on your abdomen. This device is essential for the sending and receiving of radio waves that produce the image.

The radiographer will move the table to the centre of the MRI machine. The inside of the machine is like a giant tunnel that is well lit and open at each end.

You will have a needle placed in your arm and an injection of Buscopan to limit the movement of your bowel/intestine. This will ensure your pictures are not blurred from movement. An injection of the contrast used in MRI, called Gadolinium, may also be given through this needle

You will need to lie completely still for the duration of the scan so ensure you are comfortable before it begins.
The MRI makes loud knocking noises while we take the image and we will provide you with ear plugs to reduce the noise.

The radiographer will leave the room on the commencement of the scan but will be able to see you through a window. There are speakers located inside the MRI to enable you and the radiographer to communicate if you need to. You will also be given a call bell if there are any problems during the procedure.

You will need to follow simple breathing instructions during the scan such holding your breath for a few seconds.

A specialised doctor will carefully analyse your images and make a report for your referring doctor. If the referring doctor is in the hospital they will be able to access the results on their computer. If you are an out-patient and require a copy of the images then a disc of images can be made available within 5 working days after the MRI scan.