| Magnetic Resonance Enterography (MRE) | $1,900 |
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Magnetic Resonance Enterography (MRE) is used to image the small bowel. We can see the function of the bowel and any areas that are not moving as they should. This is particularly useful for patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s or similar problems of the intestines. MRE does not use any radiation, and is safe to have multiple times to allow your doctor to assess your treatment or general bowel health. In order to see your bowel function, we will ask you drink some water or juice just prior to the exam. We will ask you to arrive 90 minutes prior to the time we will be bringing you into the room to insure you have sufficient time for the juice to make its way through your bowel. We will also need to give you an injection of MRI contrast in your arm to see areas of inflammation better. The type of contrast we use has been validated to be one of the safest types available. We may require you to have a blood test before this procedure. The cost of the contrast is included in the fee quoted above. This exam typically takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour (plus 90 minutes to drink the juice before the exam).
This exam allows us to see the motion of the bowel in real time. In the past this was done with X-rays, using harmful radiation. MRI is now the preferred option, particularly for patients who may need frequent follow-up exams.