MR pneumocolon
Scan to study the large bowel
An MR pneumocolon is a special study of the large bowel. HCA UK experts explain more about the procedure.
What is a MR pneumocolon?
It helps doctors to identify any irritated tissue, ulcers or growths, and can help to diagnose conditions such as bowel cancer.
Need to know
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What happens during the scan? icon plus
The study involves using an MRI scan, where magnetic fields and radio waves are used to generate detailed images of the body. You’ll lie on a bed which moves into the MRI scanner. It’s not painful, but you will need to lie still to enable the radiographer to obtain the best images.
Although this examination primarily focuses on the large bowel, the rest of the abdomen is also visible. The images taken can help to identify any irritated tissue, ulcers or growths such as polyps, as well as helping to diagnose conditions such as bowel cancer. -
How to prepare icon plus
To improve the image, patients need to specially prepare by ensuring that their large bowel is empty, which involves taking a laxative before the procedure. Sometimes the scanner makes loud noises and beeps during the scan, so you may be given ear protection to wear, such as ear plugs or headphones. The whole process of preparing for the scan and acquiring the images will take around two hours. -
After your scan icon plus
The MR pneumocolon is performed by a radiographer and your results are reported by a consultant radiologist. After the procedure, the images will be examined further by the radiologist, who will then report the results to your referring doctor within 24 - 48 hours.
Our consultants
Our locations
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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London Digestive Centre
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
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London Digestive Health
2nd Floor
41 Welbeck Street
London W1G 8DU
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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020 7079 4344