MR urography (MRI of the urinary tract)
Centres/Radiology/MRI/MR urography

MR urography (MRI of the urinary tract)

MR urography in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

MR urography in Tunis: MRI of the kidneys, ureters and bladder to study the flow of urine without X-rays, in adults and children.

What is it?

MR urography examines the whole urinary system: the kidneys, the cavities that collect urine, the ureters (the tubes running down to the bladder) and the bladder. Like MRCP for bile, it uses the fact that MRI shows urine in white, which outlines the urinary tract. It is particularly useful when X-rays should be avoided: in children, in pregnant women (without injection), or for repeated follow-up examinations. Depending on the question, an injection of contrast agent (gadolinium) and a medicine that increases urine production (diuretic) may be used to follow the flow of urine.

When is it indicated?

Dilatation of the kidneys or urinary tract

It looks for an obstruction to the flow of urine and identifies its cause.

Malformation of the urinary system in children

It shows the anatomy of the kidneys and ureters without exposing the child to X-rays.

Renal colic pain during pregnancy

Performed without injection, it helps understand dilatation of the kidneys in pregnant women.

Blood in the urine or lesion of the urinary tract

It complements ultrasound or CT scan on the urologist's advice.

Preparation

1Remove jewellery, watch, piercings, hair clips, bank cards and any metal object before entering the scanner room
2Tell us in advance about any pacemaker or defibrillator, implant (cochlear implant, neurostimulator, pump), surgical clip, heart valve, prosthesis or metal fragment: some are MRI-compatible, others are not
3Drink plenty of fluids before the examination; fasting for a few hours may be requested depending on the protocol
4Tell us about any diuretic treatment or prostate problem
5Tell us if you are pregnant or think you might be
6Let us know if you are afraid of enclosed spaces (claustrophobia): the team will support you and your doctor can prescribe a mild sedative
7If an injection is planned, tell us about any kidney disease, allergy or past reaction to a contrast agent; a recent blood test (creatinine) may be requested
8Bring your referral, previous imaging (MRI, CT scan, ultrasound) and any relevant reports

Procedure

1

You change in a cubicle and put your metal objects in a locker

2

A drip is placed in your arm if an injection is planned

3

You lie on your back, with a coil placed on your abdomen

4

A diuretic may be injected to fill the urinary tract; you may be asked to pass urine between two series

5

The scanner makes loud, repetitive noises while the images are being taken: headphones or earplugs are provided

6

You stay in contact with the team through a microphone and a call bell that you hold in your hand

7

After the examination, you may need to pass urine more often for a few hours if a diuretic was given

Duration

About 30 to 45 minutes

Results

The images are analysed by a radiologist, who writes a report. The report is given to you with the images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.

Precautions and contraindications

No X-rays: MRI does not use ionising radiation
Not possible with a pacemaker, defibrillator or implant that is not MRI-compatible, or with a metal foreign body in the eye
Allergic reaction to gadolinium: rare, and usually mild (redness, itching)
In case of severe kidney failure, the gadolinium injection is avoided or adjusted by the doctor
During pregnancy, MRI is only performed if it is really useful, and usually without an injection
You may feel enclosed inside the tunnel; the examination can be stopped at any time

Your doctor and the radiology team will inform you in detail before the examination. Feel free to ask them your questions.

This information is general and does not replace the advice of your doctor, who chooses the examination suited to your situation.

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