Pelvic MRI - does it cover abdomen too?

[Rewe]

Hi there, this may be a silly question but I'm booked in for pelvic MRI next month (had endometriomas confirmed on abdominal US in Aug/Sept) to assess extent of lesions. Consultant and I both suspect presence of endo on bowel/rectum. I have pain up the right hand side of my abdomen too, right up to the bottom of my ribcage, that fluctuates with my cycle. It is the site of an old (like 8 years ish) bike crash impact so for a long time i put it down to scar tissue or something (never went to A&E at the time) but the levels of pain and the sensation feels like it could be linked to the endo, especially as it flares up before and when i get my period. My question is does the "pelvic MRI" cover the abdomen (and including diaphragm, since i also have pain behind left shoulder blade which could be linked to surgery i had in May for appendectomy (where surgeon noted ovarian cysts - thank goodness after not being taken seriously and no sonographer finding them prior to this) but also I'd like to rule out diaphragm endo). I think if i'm having an MRI i just want them to scan that whole area. Does anyone know if i need to request an 'abdominal MRI' or will the pelvic one cover it. I really want to avoid having to pay for any more private stuff after funding the ultrasound and a consultation to ease my anxiety about what was going on (which i would recommend doing if you're in a similar situation... doesn't speed things up or 'jump the queue' but enables clear info at an earlier stage, which for me has helped loads as I've been able to do my own research and make cahnges to diet and lifestyle which are already helping!) Thanks for this community - it's so supportive and informative Rx

[635703]

so gutted you’re going through this ordeal with your Endo! From my experience, a pelvic MRI you gat something to put on your stomach and this helps them measure and check you on the imaging. I went in feet first and upto over my waist, I think?!

I imagine it covers your stomach for sure but just ring radiology and ask them at the reception there maybe?! Only a Radiographer or Radiologist or Gynecologist could answer this for you with any robust knowledge to be safe.

I know it’s all anxiety inducing. But write your questions down and give them a ring. All the best in your diagnosis and recovery 💪🏻💗🫶🏻

[Rewe in reply to 635703]

Thanks so much for your reply and kind thoughts. The person who booked the appointment didn't seem to know but I think I'll call the consultant's secretary and see if they know. Wishing you well with your own journey too! X

[Pinkmice]

Hi

With endo- It,s a long journey of scans- Tests etc

Endo the scans will help find - out where it is with-in your body.

Glad that your life - the impact - But the stress,anxiety about the next stage

- Private health schemes - Even on The NHS system - will be an long process

I am further along than yourself. Had the big op when 30 year,s old- after suffering

since my periods started at 11.

Now in my late fifties - Still have an problem with endo- Natural diet

help,s but stress and anxiety - brings un pleasant - results to my life

But as an woman deal with that - as best as I can.

Hope went you get the result that you continue to stay safe and well.

For you and your family

Big hug from me

[Rewe in reply to Pinkmice]

Thank you for your support and sharing your journey too. I agree a wholesome diet helps but also that stress makes it all so much worse. Sending hugs back to you!

[Sez73]

I’m just trying to find out the same thing at the moment actually as I’m wanting to book a private MRI. I have severe stage 4 endo with bowel involvement. When I saw a highly regarded surgeon/endo specialist a few years ago (who has now retired), he ordered MRI scans which took absolutely ages to do as he wanted so many pictures. I looked out the paperwork and it says: Pelvic gynaecological MRI, Pelvic MRI and Abdomen MRI with a page of radiographer’s notes for each scan so they all seemed to be slightly different. Not sure if that helps. I’m in the midst of trying to work out what covers what so I’ll keep u posted if I find anything useful out which may help! All the best x

[Rewe]

Hi there, thanks so much for your reply. That is helpful. I think im being palmed off. I already know I have endometriomas, from a private ultrasound that I then got looked at by consultant privately. But now I'm back in the NHS system. My pain goes right up my right hand side and I have bowel related symptoms. The consultant did think it would be on the bowel so I'm not sure why an abdominal MRI hasn't been booked. I think he would have, had I been a private patient. I hope you get your MRI booked and the one you want, and the right follow up support too. Shame your doc retired. Thanks again for your reply. All the best.