Small Bowel MRI

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

A Small Bowel MRI scan is specifically designed to provide detailed images of the small intestine, helping to diagnose conditions such as Crohn’s disease, small bowel tumors or unexplained abdominal pain. It is a safe, non-invasive procedure that does not involve radiation. If your concern is the large bowel rather than the small bowel, a virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography) is usually the most suitable scan, as it is specifically designed to assess the colon and detect polyps, blockages, or other abnormalities.

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

What Is a Small Bowel MRI?

This scan uses magnetic fields instead of radiation to visualise the small intestine, allowing 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
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 or small intestine problems.

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 Small Bowel 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.