MRI with or without contrast?

[JulieVr]

Hello, a private GP recommended I get contrast with my pelvic MRI. However when I booked with Vista Health (after them reading his referral letter) they did not schedule with contrast. Wondering if it matters.

Has anyone had their MRI without contrast and had any issues with detection?

Thanks, just want to make sure I don't need to do this again!

[Tangoandmax]

I recently had the MRI without contrast on the NHS. Results showed deep infiltrating endo involving my bowel.

As long as the person reviewing results are a specialist/know what they’re looking for - it should be ok.

[JulieVr in reply to Tangoandmax]

Thanks for the quick answer, makes me feel better!

[Emmaja_ne]

mine was without contrast and endometriosis was diagnosed

[JulieVr in reply to Emmaja_ne]

Thanks for the quick answer, makes me feel better!

[Star30]

Hi, sorry to jump onto this post! I had my MRI 4 weeks ago now and I was told by my consultant that I would have the contrast dye but when I went for my MRI was told that they don’t do it anymore! So I am putting my trust in the professionals looking at the results and hoping that will be enough!

Also for those that have had an MRI previously how long was it till you got your results? Been 4 weeks now and not heard anything and wondering whether I need to chase results up or just wait abit longer, my anxiety is through the roof!

Take care everyone x

[MangoStickyRice in reply to Star30]

I think it depends on the route. NHS waiting times can be longer than private. Call your consultant / centre and ask them directly as they will likely need to schedule a follow up appointment for you to discuss the images (I don’t think they just send a letter only).

I had my MRI on Wednesday - they did one first without contrast and then after with contrast (both pelvic) then did one of the abdomen. I think as long as and experienced individual is conducting and reviewing the images you will be fine hope everything is ok / you achieve a diagnosis.

[bunmum2 in reply to Star30]

Not sure about MRI and contrast dye for pelvis, but I recently had one for my upper G.I. tract looking at liver and they (Addenbrooke's hospital) definitely still use contrast dye for that. I didn't know one could have an MRI of pelvic region, not sure if I remember this right but I was under the impression that it couldn't be done, I had a C.T. pelvic scan many years ago with iodine as contrast dye which gave me palpitations. I suspect different doctors say whatever is convenient for them.