Small Bowel MRI

Get answers to your unexplained symptoms
No NHS referral needed
Next day appointments
Detailed follow up report

What is a Spine MRI scan?

A Small Bowel MRI (MR Enterography) is a highly specialised, non‑invasive scan that provides detailed images of the small intestine, helping detect inflammation, structural abnormalities, Crohn’s disease activity, tumours and causes of persistent abdominal symptoms.

This scan is particularly valuable when symptoms remain unexplained after other tests such as blood work, colonoscopy, ultrasound or CT.

At Pall Mall Medical, you receive fast access, advanced MRI imaging and a comprehensive follow‑up report, with no waiting lists or GP referral required.

What Is a Small Bowel MRI?

A small bowel MRI is a specialist scan that produces high‑resolution images of the small intestine using magnetic fields rather than radiation. It enables radiologists to assess:

Inflammation of the intestinal wall (ideal for Crohn’s)
Swelling and oedema
Strictures (narrowed areas that may obstruct the bowel)
Fistulas and abscesses
Ulcers or mucosal changes
Tumours, polyps or abnormal growths
Partial or complete obstruction

MRI is widely considered one of the most accurate, patient‑friendly and repeatable imaging tools for small bowel investigations.

Private Imaging and Scanning at Newton-Le-Willows

When might you need a Small Bowel MRI?

A private small bowel MRI can be helpful if you have any of the following symptoms or conditions:

Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
Long‑term diarrhoea
Suspected or diagnosed Crohn’s disease
Unexplained anaemia
Malabsorption or rapid weight loss
Abdominal bloating and discomfort
A history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Suspected bowel obstruction

Why choose MRI over other tests?

No radiation – safe for children, teens, and patients needing repeated imaging
Excellent soft‑tissue clarity, ideal for bowel wall and inflammation
Best‑practice imaging for Crohn’s assessment, including disease activity monitoring
Non‑invasive and generally well‑tolerated
High diagnostic accuracy, even for subtle changes

Compared to contrast X‑rays or CT, MRI provides superior detail of the small bowel without radiation exposure.

What to expect during your Spine MRI scan

Duration Typically, you can expect your scan to take between 45 and 60 minutes

Preparation You may be asked to drink a special liquid to help expand the bowel for clearer images. In some cases, a contrast dye may be injected to improve clarity.

The Scan You will lie comfortably on the MRI table. The scan is painless but can be slightly noisy. A radiographer will monitor you throughout and can communicate with you at any time.

Our wide‑bore MRI machines

Our wide-bore MRI scanner works just like a traditional MRI, producing detailed images of the body’s organs and tissues. The wider opening (bore) provides patients with more space and headroom, and also allows us to comfortably accommodate taller, larger, or broader-built individuals. This design helps patients feel less intimidated and more at ease throughout the scan, particularly those who experience anxiety or claustrophobia.