MRI DEFECOGRAPHY
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
What is MRI Defecography?
MRI defecography is a specialized magnetic-resonance scan that captures real-time video of the rectum, pelvic floor muscles, and nearby organs while you gently push as if having a bowel movement. No scopes, no X-rays—just detailed pictures that show how each part works together or fails to do so.
List of Parameters
| Parameter | What We Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Anorectal Angle | Normal: ~90° at rest, widens 10–20° when you push | Narrow or fixed angles may signal pelvic floor spasm |
| Pelvic Floor Descent | Normal: ≤2 cm downward movement | Excessive drop hints at prolapse or weak ligaments |
| Rectal Wall Integrity | Smooth wall, no outpouching | Bulges = rectocele or sigmoidocele |
| Puborectalis Muscle Function | Relaxes on push, tightens on squeeze | Failure to relax = dyssynergia |
Why This Test
- Chronic Constipation: Rule out mechanical blockage or muscle discoordination
- Fecal Incontinence: Identify tears or nerve weakness
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse: See if bladder, uterus, or rectum has dropped
- Rectal Intussusception: Detect telescoping of the rectum into itself
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of MRI Defecography
- Non-invasive Imaging—no scopes, no needles
- No Radiation Exposure—safe for repeated follow-ups
- Detailed Soft-tissue Visualization—see muscles, fat, and organs in one scan
- Real-time Functional Assessment—observe what happens when you actually push
Conditions Diagnosed with MRI Defecography
| Condition | Brief Description |
|---|---|
| Rectocele | Front wall of rectum bulges into vagina |
| Enterocele | Small bowel pushes down between rectum and vagina |
| Sigmoidocele | Lowest part of colon droops into pelvis |
| Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia | Muscles tighten instead of relax when you try to have a bowel movement |
Preparing for test
Pre-requisites
- Light breakfast or clear liquids only 4 hours before scan
- Enema or suppository night before to empty rectum (advised, not mandatory)
- Bring loose clothing and remove all metal objects
Best Time to Take the MRI Defecography
Schedule during a non-menstrual week if possible; morning slots reduce waiting time.
Eligibility
- Adults of all ages; children by special arrangement
- Not suitable for patients with MRI-incompatible implants or severe claustrophobia
Procedure for Taking a MRI Defecography
- Change into gown; empty bladder
- Lie on open MRI table or sit on commode-style seat
- A small gel-filled tube (contrast) is gently inserted into rectum
- You push, rest, squeeze per technician’s cues while scanner records 20–30 seconds
- Total time: 35–45 minutes
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Inform staff of pregnancy, kidney disease, or claustrophobia
- Bring a list of current medications
Test Results
Results and Interpretations of MRI Defecography
| Finding / Observation | Generalized Description | General Interpretation/Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Anorectal Angle | 85–110° at rest, ≥10° increase on push | Fixed or narrow: dyssynergia |
| Pelvic Floor Descent | ≤2 cm below pubococcygeal line | >2 cm: prolapse |
| Rectal Wall Integrity | Smooth contour | Bulge ≥2 cm: rectocele |
| Enterocele/Sigmoidocele | Protrusion of small bowel (enterocele) or sigmoid colon (sigmoidocele) into rectovaginal space during straining. | Can compress the rectum externally, contributing to obstructive defecation symptoms. |
| Rectal Emptying | Degree of contrast gel evacuation from the rectum during straining. | Incomplete emptying is a hallmark of evacuation disorder. |
| Puborectalis Muscle | Relaxes on push | Persistent sling: dyssynergia |
| Internal Intussusception | Telescoping of rectal wall into rectal lumen or anal canal on straining. | Graded by depth and length; may cause luminal narrowing and obstruct evacuation. |
| Anal Sphincter Integrity | Anatomical assessment of internal and external anal sphincters for defects, thinning, or scarring from previous injuries (e.g., childbirth trauma). | Important in evaluating fecal incontinence risk. Structural damage may impair continence. |
Risks & Limitations
- Safe: No radiation or known long-term risks
- Non-invasive: No needles or scopes
- Limitations: May miss very small tears; not suitable if you have non-MRI-safe implants (e.g., some pacemakers)
FAQs
Is MRI Defecography painful?
No. The contrast tube is smaller than a typical enema nozzle; most feel only mild pressure.
How long does the procedure take?
Actual scanning is 20–30 minutes; plan one hour including preparation.
Can I eat before the test?
A light, low-fiber meal 4 hours earlier is fine. Avoid heavy meals.
When will I get my results?
We email or courier reports within one business day.
Is the contrast agent safe?
Yes—made from inert gel that mimics stool; no allergies reported.
Do I need a referral?
A doctor’s prescription ensures the scan targets the right clinical question; walk-ins accepted with prior GP note.