MRCP Quick Reference Guide for Physicians

Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)

Ordering Information:

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography is a powerful method of evaluating the gallbladder, intra and extra-hepatic bile ducts, as well as the pancreatic duct. Because of the extremely high soft tissue contrast of MRI, the fluid filled ducts of the biliary and pancreatic systems are highlighted on MRCP images. No contrast is needed for this study.

Physicians use MRCP to:

Examine diseases of the gallbladder and bile and pancreatic ducts. These may include tumors, stones, inflammation or infection.
Evaluate patients with pancreatitis to detect the underlying cause.
To help diagnose unexplained abdominal pain.
As a less invasive alternative to ECRP.
MRCP can produce images comparable to those obtained by a more invasive exam called ERCP.

Patient Preparation

If claustrophobia or anxiety is a problem, the referring physician my wish to prescribe a mild sedative to be given prior to the study. No other pre-visit preparation is necessary. Patients will need to remove all jewelry, hairclips, pony-tails and bobby pins. In addition, the patient will need to remove all clothing containing metal. This would include bras with metal enclosures and jeans with metal zippers and buttons. Your patient will be provided a gown and a secure locker in which valuables can be placed.

Patient Weight Limit

Our MRI equipment has a weight limit of 440 pounds.

CPT Codes

74181

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General Information:

MR imaging uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bone and virtually all other internal body structures. MRI does not use ionizing radiation (x-rays). Detailed MR images allow physicians to better evaluate various parts of the body and determine the presence of certain diseases that may not be assessed adequately with other imaging methods.

Contraindications

Patients with cardiac pacemakers, ICD, or neuro-stimulators CAN NOT have an MRI. Patients with pins, plates, screws and joint replacements, stents & filters can have an MRI as long as it has been 6 weeks since placement of the device. Women who are pregnant should avoid having an elective MRI. Women who are pregnant and need an MRI should be individually evaluated for risk vs. benefits and should avoid an MRI in the 1st trimester of pregnancy.

How Does Your Patient Prepare?

Patients will need to remove all jewelry, hairclips, pony-tails and bobby pins. In addition, the patient will need to remove all clothing containing metal. This would include bras with metal enclosures and jeans with metal zippers and buttons. Your patient will be provided a gown and a secure locker in which valuables can be placed.

What Happens During the Test?

Your patient will be asked to lie down on his back on the scanning table. The table will then slide into the scanning area. During the test, the MRI will make a rapid tapping noise. Your patient’s experience and comfort are of key importance. Therefore, our patients are offered earplugs or a music headset; in addition blankets are also available. Your patient should relax and remain still during the exam. Your patient should plan 60-90 minutes of total clinic time. The scan time can vary from 30-60 minutes depending on the study. Your patient may resume normal activities following the MRI.

The Results

A radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report to the referring physician within 1 business day.