What is MRI enteroclysis?

MRI enteroclysis is a specialised imaging test that provides detailed images of the small intestine. It is mainly used to diagnose and monitor inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease, as well as small bowel strictures, obstructions, tumours, and motility disorders.

Unlike standard MRI scans, enteroclysis involves placing a thin tube through the nose into the small intestine to deliver a special contrast liquid. This expands the bowel, allowing for clearer, high-resolution images.

MRI enteroclysis is particularly useful when more detail is needed than a standard MR enterography, where the contrast is simply drunk rather than directly delivered into the bowel.

Why might you need an MRI enteroclysis?

Your doctor may recommend MRI enteroclysis if you have:

• Unexplained abdominal pain or bloating

• Suspected or confirmed Crohn’s disease

• Persistent diarrhoea or malabsorption

• Small bowel strictures (narrowing) or obstruction

• Unexplained weight loss or anaemia

• Tumours or abnormal growths in the small bowel

• A need for detailed imaging before surgery or treatment planning

How is MRI enteroclysis different from MRI enterography?

Both MRI enteroclysis and MR enterography are used to examine the small bowel, but they differ in how the contrast liquid is delivered:

• MRI enteroclysis – A thin tube (nasoduodenal tube) is inserted through your nose and guided into the small intestine. The contrast liquid is delivered directly into the bowel, ensuring maximum expansion for the clearest possible images. This method is better for detecting strictures, blockages, and early Crohn’s disease

• MRI enterography – You drink the contrast liquid, which passes naturally through your digestive system. This method is less invasive but may not provide the same level of detail, especially if strictures or blockages are suspected

How to prepare for the scan

Your radiology team will provide specific instructions before your scan, but general preparation includes:

• Fasting – You will need to avoid food and drink for at least 6 hours before the procedure

• Medications – Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications, especially those affecting digestion

• Metal objects – Remove jewellery, piercings, or metallic implants, as MRI uses a strong magnetic field

• Contrast dye allergy – If you have had a reaction to contrast dye before, let the radiology team know

For MRI enteroclysis, a nasoduodenal tube will be placed, which may feel uncomfortable, but a numbing spray can help reduce discomfort.

What happens during the scan?

Tube placement

• A thin, flexible tube is inserted through your nose and guided into the small intestine using X-ray guidance.
• A numbing spray may be used to reduce discomfort.
• A special contrast liquid is delivered through the tube to expand the bowel, improving image quality.

MRI scan

• You will be asked to lie on the scanning table, which will move into the MRI machine

• You will need to stay still and follow breathing instructions while images are taken

• The scan usually takes 30 to 60 minutes

• The nasoduodenal tube is removed immediately after the scan

Some patients may also receive an injection of contrast dye through a vein to improve imaging of blood vessels and soft tissues.

Are there any risks?

MRI enteroclysis is a very safe procedure, but there are a few things to be aware of:

• Mild discomfort – You may feel bloated or have mild cramps as the contrast liquid fills your bowel

• Nasal tube discomfort – Some people find the placement of the tube uncomfortable, but this is temporary

• Contrast reaction – Rarely, some patients may experience mild allergic reactions to the contrast dye

• MRI safety concerns – If you have a pacemaker, cochlear implant, or metal implants, let the radiology team know before the scan

What happens after the scan?

• The nasoduodenal tube is removed immediately after the scan

• You can eat and drink normally once the scan is complete

• You may experience mild diarrhoea as your body processes the contrast liquid

• Your doctor will review the results and discuss the findings with you

Why choose the Midlands Bowel Clinic?

• State-of-the-art MRI scanners for high-resolution small bowel imaging

• Expert radiologists specialising in bowel condition

• Fast access to scans and results to guide your treatment plan

• A patient-centred experience with a focus on accuracy and comfort

Contact us

If you need an MRI enteroclysis scan or have any questions, please contact us. We are here to help.