MRI on Monday

[Mattie]

Hi
I have recently got a new GI and he wants to do an MRI. This will be my first. I've been told today that I have to take one sachet of prep on Sunday evening, then will be given another when I arrive for the MRI. I'm not good with prep, the last time I took it I was given picolax and was projectile vomiting for several hours. This time I am to take Clear Prep. My concern is the prep I have to take immediately prior to the scan. What happens if I need to go to the loo during the scan? I am told the MRI will take 90 minutes in total, so the chances are high! Anyone any experience of this please?

 

[Ttoz]

Oh man! Yes, I don't have a large intestine and have been in that position so many times lately. I too hate the prep. One time I had pina colada drink, IV, and during they rolled me out and gave me a shot in the arm and then did another 45 minutes. Just about threw up all over the place from whatever that shot was. If you got to go while you're in there just tell them, they have a speaker/mic in the tube. And I'm sure you're not the first one they've ever seen with this problem Yeah I would rather take boots to the crotch than have to drink all the stuff! Good luck and I bet when you're in there, you don't end up having to use the bathroom!

 

[FrozenGirl]

Generally you are given a Med that basically temporarily paralyzes the peristalsis (contractions that make you have to go to the washroom). So it is unlikely you will need to go until the very end if at all in the machine. That said you have a button to talk to them and they will stop and get you out if needed. Mine was only about half an hour so it may not be that long if they can get good pictures in the first while. Good luck with the prep!!

 

[Mattie]

Thank you both for your replies. I'm having three areas scanned and have been told it will be 90 mins in total. However, I'm presuming they can pause after each area? Just hope if I have to go there's a loo close by and that whatever they give you to stop peristalsis lasts for 90 mins? I'm just not going to think about it! Oh joy!

 

[FrozenGirl]

I'm sure a pause is essential, even if you didn't have to go just to reposition you and the machine. In my case the loo was outside the room just a short walk down the hallway. You will get through it!

 

[Mattie]

Thanks Frozen Girl. That's very reassuring.