Radiology
MR Enterography
MR Enterography (MRE)
Magnetic resonance enterography is an imaging study that lets your doctor see detailed pictures of your small intestine. It can pinpoint inflammation, bleeding, abscesses, and other problems. This exam may also help track how well certain treatments are working.
MR enterography is often recommended for Crohn’s disease which tends to strike young people, who are at greater risk of problems from repeated diagnostic radiation exposure. MR enterography can help avoid radiation exposure because imaging your bowels with MRI does not involve any radiation exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Since MR Enterography requires contrast, you will drink several bottles of oral contrast material (about 50 ounces total) during the hour leading up to the exam. You will also have an IV started for injection of the second contrast material, as well as a medication that slows down the normal contractions of the intestines. This allows for the best possibly imaging quality.
During any MRI scan, you’ll lie comfortably on your stomach in the prone position on a table that is moved inside of a large magnet. A piece of equipment called a “coil,” which sends and receives radio frequency waves, will be placed around your midsection. During the scan you will hear various noises, ranging from a buzzing to a loud knocking. We’ll provide earplugs, or in some cases music, to help with the noise.
Because an MRI exam takes images (or “slices”) from various angles, several sets of images will be taken, each lasting from one to 10 minutes. It’s important to lie very still during each sequence in order to produce clear, diagnostic images. The total exam time can range from 30 to 60 minutes.
Since you will be positioned within a large, very strong magnet, you must remove all loose metal objects. Doing so is important for your safety and the safety of our staff, and to ensure proper functioning of the equipment. You may be asked to change into a gown or scrubs unless you are wearing clothing that is metal-free. Please let us know ahead of time if any of the following applies to you:
- Cardiac Pacemaker
- Artificial heart valve prosthesis
- Eye Implants or metal ear implants
- Any metal implants activated electronically, magnetically, or mechanically
- Aneurysm clips
- Copper 7 IUD
- Penile implant
- Shrapnel or non-removed bullet
- Pregnancy
- Claustrophobia
- Any metal puncture(s) or fragment(s) in the eye
Do not eat or drink for 4 hours before the exam. Please arrive an hour early in order to register and begin drinking the contrast material.
Results are usually sent to your referring physician 48 hours after your exam.
Visit our locations page for more information. Imaging modalities and associated studies vary by location. Please contact us to schedule your visit at a convenient location near you.
Request an appointment online or contact us at 716-631-2500.
Please check with your insurance plan to confirm that the procedure is covered. You may be responsible for all or a portion of the bill. Payment may be required at the time of service. For questions regarding insurance coverage, and/or billing please call 716-631-2500.
