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MRE (enterography)

What is a Magnetic Resonance Enterography (MRE)?

  • Magnetic Resonance Enterography (MRE) is an imaging test that takes detailed pictures of your small intestine
  • This helps you doctor see if there is any inflammation, bleeding or other problems in your small intestine
  • An MRE is not an x-ray so it there is no radiation
  • An MRE uses a magnetic field to create images and a computer to evaluate the images of your small intestine
  • An oral contrast will be given to drink before the test
  • The MRE takes about 45 minutes

Why is an MRE needed?
An MRE is used to look for:

  • Inflammation or swelling
  • Obstructions or blockages
  • Abscesses – puss filled pockets
  • Fistulas
  • Assess how well treatments are working

What is the preparation for an MRE?
Preparation for an MRE includes:

  • Making sure you know why the test has been ordered
  • Let your healthcare provider know if you have kidney disease, are a diabetic, have any implanted medical devices or may be pregnant
  • Do not wear any jewelry or body piercings, or bring any valuable personal items to the procedure.
  • Do not carry any metal objects into the exam room such as hairpins and metal zippers.
  • On the day of the test, the patient may have a light breakfast. Please drink plenty of clear fluids before arriving for the test. This will help keep the bowel filled
  • Upon arrival for the test the patient will be given a bowel prep to drink. The patient has 2 hours to drink a total of 1 to 2 litres of the bowel prep
  • The patient will be injected with Buscopan IV to suspend bowel motion

What happens after MRE?

  • Some people have mild nausea, cramping, or diarrhea from the contrast
  • Please contact your healthcare provider or seek medical attention if you have any serious or ongoing discomfort.




REMINDER: This information is intended to provide general information and should not be used to base a diagnosis or treatment. Please consult the doctors about your specific condition and the approach for treatment.