Elastography
MRI Elastography is a noninvasive imaging test that uses low-frequency vibrations to create a visual map (elastogram) of the liver to evaluate for increased stiffness, which can be seen in the setting of inflammation and/or fibrosis.
What to Expect
- We’ll give you a call before your appointment to talk through preparation instructions and your past imaging exams.
- If your exam requires contrast, we’ll discuss any special requirements with you.
- On the day of your exam, please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. If instructed to do so, please bring prior imaging results with you.
- When you arrive, you will be led to a changing room and given a pair of scrubs to wear for your exam. You will be given a locker to store your clothes, and anything else you may have with you during your exam.
- The technologist will help position you on a cushioned table. Often, an imaging device called a “coil” will be placed around the area of the body to be scanned. The coil acts like an antenna to help capture high quality images of your body.
- You will be offered earplugs or headphones, as well as a blanket for your comfort.
- Once you are comfortably positioned, the technologist will go out of the room to run the scanner from a computer located directly next to the scanner suite, visible through the viewing window. The technologist will communicate with you throughout the exam and check to see how you are doing.
- When the scan starts, the table you’re on will move into the scanner so the technologist can capture images. It’s important to lie as still as possible during this part of the exam to help us capture clear images. You will hear “knocking” or “buzzing” sounds for a few minutes at a time.
- MRI contrast (a special dye that helps highlight your anatomy) may be needed. Contrast will be administered through an IV placed in your hand or arm before your exam.
- When your scan is complete, you’ll be escorted back to the changing room so you can change out of the scrubs and back into your clothing.
- Once you have changed, your appointment is complete. You do not need to check out with the front desk when you leave.
- After the exam, your images will be sent electronically to a radiologist who will review the information and send a report to your referring provider, typically within one to two business days.
- You should follow up with your referring provider to discuss your results.