Magnetic resonance cholangiogram

A magnetic resonance cholangiogram (MRC) is a new test that can help doctors look for problems in the abdomen. The image is done from outside the body, without inserting an instrument.

Doctors can use MRC to locate gallstones before surgery to remove the gallbladder (laparoscopic cholecystectomy). But the test is most useful for diagnosing complications of gallstones, such as obstruction of the bile duct, perforation of the gallbladder, or abscesses.¹ The disadvantage of MRC is that, unlike ERCP, doctors cannot use it to remove gallstones.

Access to this test is not available in all areas. If you need an MRC, you may need to travel to a regional centre.

Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: September 21, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
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