MRI Abdomen
MRI of the abdomen for liver, biliary, pancreatic, kidney, and bowel evaluation — read by sub-specialty body imagers.
Find MRI Abdomen near you
What a mri abdomen shows
- Liver lesion characterization (HCC, FNH, adenoma, metastases)
- Biliary tree (MRCP) — stones, strictures, congenital variants
- Pancreatic masses and cysts
- Renal masses and complex cysts
- Adrenal nodules and incidentalomas
- Inflammatory bowel disease — bowel wall thickening and complications
Why your physician orders it
- Characterize a liver, pancreas, or kidney lesion seen on ultrasound or CT
- Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma
- Evaluate the biliary tree without ERCP
- Inflammatory bowel disease staging
- Pre-operative planning
Contrast notes
Abdominal and pelvic MRI may be performed with or without gadolinium contrast depending on the clinical question. Tumor characterization, vascular work-up, and inflammatory bowel evaluation typically require contrast; renal screening (eGFR) is done first.
Prep summary
Most patients don't need special prep beyond completing the MRI/CT safety screening and removing metal jewelry. Specific prep (fasting, contrast, medication timing) is confirmed at scheduling.
Read the full MRI prep guideWhat to expect during the exam
Plan for 45–60 minutes. You'll fast for 4–6 hours beforehand. You'll lie on the table with a body coil over the abdomen and be coached on breath-holds during scanning.
If gadolinium is ordered, an IV is placed; for MRCP, you may be given an oral negative contrast agent to suppress bowel signal.
Results and report turnaround
Every study is interpreted by a board-certified radiologist — most by fellowship-trained sub-specialists in the relevant body system. Preliminary reads are typically available within a few hours, with the signed final report sent to your ordering provider the same business day.
You can also request a copy of the report and the imaging on disk for your own records or for a second opinion.
Cost and insurance
Most major California insurance plans cover medically necessary abdominal MRI when authorized. Our team verifies your benefits before scheduling and tells you up front what — if anything — you'll owe.
We also accept cash pay, workers' compensation, and personal-injury liens. Self-pay rates are published below so there are no surprises at the front desk.
Why patients choose Precise Imaging for MRI Abdomen
Sub-specialty Reads
Fellowship-trained neuro, MSK, and body radiologists interpret every study.
Open & Wide-Bore Options
Comfortable choices for claustrophobic, pediatric, or larger patients.
Same-Day Appointments
Most locations offer same- or next-day scheduling, including evenings and weekends.
Every Financial Type
Insurance, cash, workers' comp, and personal injury liens accepted.
Find a mri abdomen location
Our network covers California from San Diego to Sacramento. Use the finder above to see MRI locations near you, or browse the full directory.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before the exam?
Most abdominal MRI protocols require a 4–6 hour fast. We confirm specifics at scheduling based on your physician's order.
How long does abdominal MRI take?
45–60 minutes. Plan for an hour and a half door-to-door.
Will I need contrast?
Many abdominal protocols use gadolinium. Renal function is screened first.
Is breath-holding really required?
Yes — many abdominal sequences are acquired during a 15–20 second breath-hold to freeze respiratory motion. The technologist coaches you through it.
Is abdominal MRI safe in pregnancy?
MRI without gadolinium is generally considered safe in pregnancy when clinically indicated. Gadolinium is avoided unless absolutely necessary. Tell the technologist if you may be pregnant.
How much does it cost?
Insured patients pay their plan's cost-share. We also offer transparent, discounted self-pay rates — call 800-558-2223 for a quote.