Women's Health Program - Lower Abdomen MRI

What is examined in this program?

Women's health is influenced by hormonal factors, cardiometabolic processes, and gynecological aspects. These factors vary throughout life stages and require an assessment in their context.

The Woman's Health program - Lower abdomen MRI combines gynecological examinations (internal ultrasound only on gynecologist's indication), laboratory tests, and cardiological assessment with targeted MRI examinations of the abdomen. This provides a comprehensive picture of your health, evaluating different aspects in mutual context.

MRI scan

nephrology Lower abdomen

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Technical description

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A preventive MRI of the lower abdomen is intended to detect potential conditions at an early stage, but if you experience symptoms or notice unusual changes, you should always contact your general practitioner.

General:

Diverticula: bulges in the intestines that can become inflamed and cause abdominal pain.
Enlarged lymph nodes: these may indicate an infection or another underlying condition.
Bladder abnormalities: bulges (diverticula) or other abnormalities in the bladder can be detected.
Inguinal hernia: a bulge in the groin that causes pain or discomfort.

For women:

Fibroids (myomas): these are benign growths in the uterus. The scan measures the size and location of these myomas, which can be useful in treating menstrual complaints.
Uterine wall: a thickened uterine wall can cause lower abdominal complaints and menstrual problems.
Congenital abnormalities of the uterus: in rare cases, there may be a double uterus, vagina, or cervix. This is uncommon, but important information for health.
Endometriosis: this condition can cause severe lower abdominal complaints, especially around menstruation.
Enlarged ovaries: this may indicate cysts or other abnormalities.
Pelvic floor weakness: this can lead to prolapse, which causes discomfort.

For men:

Enlarged prostate: a common condition in older men, which can cause problems with urination.
Prostate examination: in men over 40, a scan can detect abnormalities in the prostate, such as enlarged glands.

What we cannot assess well:

Esophagus, stomach, and intestines. These organs are too mobile.

It is possible that an examination may lead to incidental findings. Before the examination, Prescan will ask whether you wish to be informed about incidental findings for which monitoring or treatment is possible, and incidental findings concerning conditions that may affect your offspring. Prescan is not permitted to inform you about incidental findings for which no monitoring or treatment is possible (see NEN 8051 standard for more information).

The results of the examination can be shared with your general practitioner. For more information about preventive medical examinations, Prescan recommends consulting the following independent sources:

Brochure from KNMG

RIVM Health Testing website

Pros and cons

Pros

High image quality without radiation: An MRI scan provides highly detailed images of organs and tissues without the use of harmful ionizing radiation, unlike for example an X-ray or CT scan.
Non-invasive and safe: The examination is safe and non-invasive, meaning that no needles or procedures are required, making it more comfortable for the patient.
No contrast medium required: For this specific MRI scan, no contrast medium is used, which makes the examination safer for people who may be allergic to contrast media or have kidney problems.

Cons

A preventive MRI scan can sometimes detect benign abnormalities that pose no risk. This may cause unnecessary worry or anxiety, especially if follow-up examinations are required to rule out something serious.
In some cases, harmless abnormalities may mistakenly be seen as concerning, which can lead to unnecessary follow-up examinations or additional scans. This can cause stress, even if it later turns out there is no problem. Prescan will never make a diagnosis or provide treatment in such cases, but will refer you to your general practitioner for further examination.
People with metal implants such as pacemakers or surgical clips may not always be able to undergo an MRI due to the use of strong magnets.
The enclosed space of the MRI machine can be an issue for people with claustrophobia.
Without contrast medium, some small abnormalities may be less visible on the scan. This means certain details are harder to detect, and additional examinations may sometimes be needed to get a clear picture.

Alternatives

If you have any symptoms, we advise you to contact your GP. Prescan focuses on preventive health checks and is not intended for investigating existing symptoms.

(Not offered by Prescan)

Possible alternatives include: CT Scan X-ray

Risks

Claustrophobia: fear of the narrow space, potentially resolved with sedatives. Sedatives should be obtained via a GP or over the counter from a pharmacy.
A key risk during an MRI scan is the presence of metal in the body. MRI uses strong magnets, and metal objects or implants can be attracted to these magnets, which can be dangerous. This applies to:
- Metal implants: Individuals with metal implants such as pacemakers, stents, or joint replacements must always inform their doctor. Some modern implants are MRI-safe, but this must be confirmed beforehand.
- Metal in the body: Splinters or other small metal objects in the body may shift or heat up during the MRI, which could cause injury.
- Metal objects: It is important to remove all metal objects such as jewellery, watches, and piercings before the scan, as they can be attracted by the magnetic field.

To avoid risks, a thorough screening is conducted before the MRI to check for the presence of metal.

Technical description

MRI Scanners

Prescan uses 1.5 and 3 Tesla scanners. The choice of scanner depends on the availability at the location. Unfortunately, clients cannot select a specific scanner. However, both types of scanners provide reliable and accurate images, and the choice of scanner does not affect the outcome or the quality of the examination.

MRI Protocol

The MRI protocol at Prescan has been developed in consultation with radiologists and MRI technicians to ensure optimal image quality, suited for preventative medical screening. While a standard protocol is followed, radiologists may decide to deviate from it based on the specific situation and apply a customised scan protocol.

Cardiology

procedure Ultrasound of the heart
ECG ECG

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Technical description

Provides Insight Into

A preventative heart echo (echocardiogram) is a valuable examination for assessing your heart's health, even if you have no symptoms. During an echo, a doctor uses sound waves to observe how well your heart pumps blood throughout your body. This provides insight into your heart's functioning and whether everything is working as it should.

It can also detect issues with the heart valves, such as a leaky or narrowed valve, which can affect how efficiently your heart functions. Early detection of these issues can help prevent further complications. In addition to the echo, an ECG (electrocardiogram) may be performed to measure your heart rhythm and detect possible arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation.

If the echo or ECG indicates potential issues with the blood vessels around your heart, such as narrowed coronary arteries, further tests like a CT scan or angiogram might be necessary. However, at Prescan, a cardiologist will not request a CT scan, as this is not considered a preventative test. Instead, you will be referred to your GP or a specialist for further examination.

An echo can also reveal damage to the heart muscle, such as from a previous heart attack, or detect fluid buildup around the heart, which may indicate pericarditis (inflammation of the heart lining).

In summary, a preventative heart echo offers a comprehensive view of your heart’s health and helps identify potential problems early. If further testing is required, Prescan will ensure you are referred to the appropriate healthcare provider.

Note: If you currently have heart-related symptoms or have been under the care of a cardiologist in the past 12 months, you cannot undergo preventative examinations with Prescan. Preventative health checks are not intended for individuals with existing conditions or ongoing treatments. In such cases, you should contact your GP or cardiologist for further investigation and advice. If you are unsure or have any questions, feel free to contact us on 074 255 9 255.

For more information about preventive medical examinations, Prescan recommends consulting the following independent sources:

Brochure from KNMG

RIVM Health Testing website

Pros and cons

Pros:

Early detection of heart problems.
Insight into the condition of your heart.
Safe procedure, conducted under the supervision of a cardiologist.
Preventative benefits: helps you improve your lifestyle.

Cons:

Not suitable for individuals with existing heart conditions.
Limited scope: additional tests like a CT scan are required for evaluating blood vessels, such as coronary arteries, which Prescan is not authorised to perform.
A preventative check-up may sometimes detect harmless heart irregularities that do not pose any risk, potentially causing unnecessary worry or anxiety, especially if further tests are needed to rule out more serious conditions.
In some cases, benign irregularities might be mistakenly perceived as concerning, leading to unnecessary follow-up tests, which can cause stress even if there is no actual problem. Prescan will never diagnose or treat conditions themselves but will refer you to your GP for further investigation.

Alternatives:

Possible alternatives to a preventative health check with echocardiography include:

ECG: An ECG, or heart film, measures the electrical activity of your heart. This test gives insight into how your heart beats and whether there are any irregularities in rhythm or heart rate, such as arrhythmias or issues with blood flow to the heart.
Stress test (bicycle test): During this test, your heart activity is measured while cycling. It helps assess how your heart responds to physical activity and can detect problems like narrowed blood vessels at an early stage.
Cardiac MRI: This scan provides detailed images of your heart and can help detect issues such as scarring or abnormalities in the heart muscle, useful for preventative checks.
CT scan of the heart: This scan examines the blood vessels around the heart and helps detect narrowing or blockages, which are crucial for preventing cardiovascular diseases at an early stage.

Note: Prescan does not offer MRI or CT scans of the heart, as these are not classified as preventative care. They belong within regular medical care and are performed on individuals with known symptoms or risk factors. For these tests, it is best to contact your GP or cardiologist.

Risks:

An echocardiogram is a safe test with no associated risks. Since it uses sound waves rather than radiation, it is harmless to the body. The test is painless, and no needles or invasive instruments are used.
The only minor discomforts may include feeling cold gel on your skin or slight pressure from the transducer (the device that produces the echo). There are no known risks or complications linked to a heart echo.

Technical Description

Echocardiography Equipment

At Prescan, we use the latest generation of echocardiography systems to conduct heart exams. An echocardiogram is a non-invasive procedure that utilises sound waves (ultrasound) to create images of the heart and surrounding structures. Our echocardiography equipment provides detailed images of the heart chambers, valves, and blood flow, allowing early detection of any structural abnormalities or functional disorders in the heart.

Echocardiography Protocol

The echocardiography protocol at Prescan is developed in collaboration with cardiologists to ensure a thorough assessment of heart structure and function. During the test, a transducer is placed on the chest, emitting sound waves and capturing the reflected signals to form images of the heart. The cardiologist or echo technician may take images from various angles to obtain a comprehensive view of the heart. Standard measurements include assessing the size and function of the heart chambers, the thickness of the heart muscle, the functioning of the heart valves, and the speed and direction of blood flow.

While a standard echocardiography protocol is followed, the cardiologist may take additional images or adjust the test based on the client's individual condition, depending on findings during the exam.

Details

Provides insight into
Pros and cons
Alternatives
Risks
Technical description

Provides Insight Into

An ECG, also known as an electrocardiogram or heart tracing, measures the electrical activity of your heart. This test provides insight into how your heart beats and whether there are any abnormalities in heart rhythm or rate. It can reveal conditions such as an irregular heartbeat (like arrhythmias), a heart rate that is too fast or too slow, or problems with blood flow to the heart.

The ECG helps the cardiologist determine whether your heart is healthy or if there may be issues such as a blockage in the blood vessels or damage to the heart muscle. This test gives a comprehensive view of the overall functioning of your heart, allowing for timely intervention if anything is wrong.

Note: If you currently have heart-related symptoms or have been under the care of a cardiologist within the last 12 months, you cannot undergo preventative examinations with Prescan. A preventative health check is not intended for individuals with existing conditions or ongoing treatments. In such cases, you should contact your GP or cardiologist for further investigation and advice. If you are uncertain or have any questions, feel free to contact us on 074 255 9 255.

For more information about preventative medical examinations, Prescan recommends consulting the following independent sources:

KNMG

RIVM

Pros and cons

Pros

An ECG is simple and painless, with no needles or invasive procedures.
The test takes only a few minutes, and results are available quickly.
It can quickly identify abnormalities in heart rhythm.
Helps detect heart problems such as damage or blockages.
The test is safe and can be repeated without risk.

Cons:

It only measures the heart's electrical activity at that moment.
Provides no information about the heart’s structural health or exertion-related issues.
A preventative test may sometimes detect benign heart abnormalities that pose no risk. This can lead to unnecessary worry or anxiety, especially if follow-up tests are needed to rule out serious issues.
In some cases, harmless abnormalities may mistakenly be seen as concerning, resulting in unnecessary follow-up tests. This can cause stress, even if it later proves that there is no issue. Prescan will not make a diagnosis or offer treatment in such cases but will refer you to your GP for further investigation.

Alternatives:

Possible alternatives to a preventative health check with an ECG include: Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound): This test uses sound waves to create images of the heart. It shows how well your heart pumps and whether the heart valves are functioning properly, useful for early detection of problems. Exercise test (bike test): During cycling, your heart activity is measured. This helps assess how your heart responds to exertion and can detect early issues such as narrowed blood vessels. MRI of the heart: This scan provides detailed images of the heart. It can help detect problems such as scar tissue or abnormalities in the heart muscle, useful for preventative checks. CT scan of the heart: This scan examines the blood vessels around the heart, helping to detect narrowing or blockages. This is important for early prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Note: Prescan does not offer MRI or CT scans of the heart, as these tests do not fall under preventative care. They are part of regular healthcare and are performed for individuals with existing conditions or known risk factors. For these tests, it is best to contact your GP or cardiologist.

Risks

An ECG (electrocardiogram) is generally a safe procedure, but there are a few minimal risks: Skin irritation: The electrodes placed on the skin can cause slight irritation or redness, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin. Discomfort: Some people may experience mild discomfort from the adhesive pads or when removing them after the test. * Incorrect results: In rare cases, an ECG may produce inaccurate results, leading to unnecessary concerns or further tests.

Technical Description

ECG Equipment

At Prescan, we use electrocardiogram (ECG) systems to accurately measure the heart's electrical activity. The ECG systems we utilise are 12-lead devices, providing a comprehensive view of heart activity from multiple angles. These systems are certified and comply with international standards for medical diagnostic equipment.

ECG Protocol

The ECG protocol at Prescan is specifically tailored for preventative medical examinations and has been developed in consultation with cardiologists. During the ECG, electrodes are placed at specific points on the chest and limbs, which then record the heart's electrical signals. These signals provide insights into heart rate, rhythm, and the electrical conduction through the heart.

Laboratory

vaccines Women's Health extensive

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Blood tests provide insight into various processes in the body and can help identify potential abnormalities or risk factors.

At Prescan, within the women’s program, tests are conducted that relate to overall health, hormonal balance, and cardiovascular risk. This can include insights into values associated with liver and kidney function, glucose, cholesterol, and hormones.

This examination also includes hormonal measurements. These can provide additional information about hormonal processes, for example in relation to the menstrual cycle or menopause.

Blood testing can help detect disruptions in the body at an early stage. Abnormal values may prompt further investigation into, for example, metabolism, hormonal processes, or risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with other examinations, medical history, and personal circumstances.

It is important to understand that blood testing alone does not provide a complete diagnosis. Results are always a snapshot in time and must be medically interpreted. If abnormalities are found, we advise you to contact your general practitioner for further evaluation or additional testing.

It is possible that an examination may lead to incidental findings. Prior to the examination, Prescan will ask whether you wish to be informed about incidental findings for which monitoring or treatment is possible, as well as incidental findings related to conditions affecting your offspring. Prescan is not permitted to inform you about incidental findings for which no monitoring or treatment is available (see the NEN 8051 standard for more information).

KNMG leaflet

RIVM website on health tests

Measurements:

General health and organ function
These measurements provide insight into, among other things, liver- and kidneyfunction:

Hemoglobin
Sodium
Potassium
Creatinine + eGFR
Bilirubin
GGT
ALT
AST
Alkaline phosphatase

Cardiovascular risk
These values provide insight into risk factors for cardiovascular disease:

Glucose
Total cholesterol
LDL cholesterol
HDL cholesterol
Triglycerides
Cholesterol ratio
Lp(a)
ApoB

Hormonal measurements
These measurements provide insight into hormonal processes and balance:

LH
FSH
Estradiol
Prolactin
Testosterone
TSH (if abnormal fT4)

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

Health monitoring: Provides a clear overview of your overall health and helps track changes over time.
Prevention: By identifying abnormalities early, you can prevent or reduce health issues by adjusting your lifestyle.
Lifestyle advice: The results can be used to receive personalized advice on how to improve your health.
Blood collection is safe and can be repeated without risk.

Disadvantages:

Unnecessary concern: Minor abnormalities may cause worry, even if they do not require immediate treatment.
False-positive results: The test may indicate a problem when there is none, potentially leading to additional stress and follow-up examinations.
False-negative results: Sometimes issues are missed, which can create a false sense of security.
Invasive: It requires a blood draw, which may be uncomfortable or stressful for some people.

Alternatives

There are no direct alternatives available for this examination.

Risks

Temporary pain or discomfort at the site of the blood draw.
Bruising or slight swelling at the puncture site.
In some cases, more than usual bleeding may occur, especially in people with blood clotting disorders or those using blood thinners.

Technical description

Laboratory protocol

Laboratory testing at Prescan is carried out according to a standardized protocol. Blood is drawn intravenously, meaning it is collected from a vein, usually in the arm. The collected blood is stored in a tube containing an anticoagulant (such as EDTA).

This process is performed by experienced medical assistants, who ensure that the blood draw is conducted safely, hygienically, and as comfortably as possible.

The measurements performed during the laboratory testing include:

Albumin
Total protein
Sodium
Potassium
Urea
Creatinine + eGFR
Bilirubin
GGT
ALT
AST
Alkaline phosphatase
CRP
Total cholesterol
LDL cholesterol
HDL cholesterol
Cholesterol ratio
Triglycerides
Glucose
Lp(a)
ApoB
Hemoglobin
FSH

Gynaecology

gynecology Obstetric ultrasound scan

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A gynecological ultrasound is intended to provide insight into the health of the female reproductive organs. During the examination, the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding tissues are visualized.

Using an internal ultrasound, the gynecologist assesses the structure and position of the organs. The examination can help identify possible abnormalities and provides additional information in case of symptoms or questions related to gynecological health.

The ultrasound can provide insight into:
- the shape and size of the uterus
- the structure of the endometrium (uterine lining)
- the ovaries and any cysts
- visible abnormalities such as fibroids or polyps

In addition, the examination may provide indications of conditions such as endometriosis or adenomyosis. The ultrasound can also offer additional information about hormonal processes, for example in relation to the menstrual cycle or menopause.

It is important to note that not all conditions or symptoms are visible on an ultrasound. The examination provides a snapshot in time and does not constitute a complete diagnosis.

After the examination, the gynecologist will discuss the findings with you and provide advice if necessary. In case of abnormal findings, you are advised to contact your general practitioner for further evaluation or additional testing.

It is possible that an examination may lead to incidental findings. Prior to the examination, Prescan will ask whether you wish to be informed about incidental findings for which monitoring or treatment is available, as well as findings related to conditions that may affect your offspring. Prescan is not permitted to inform you about incidental findings for which no monitoring or treatment is available (see the NEN 8051 standard for more information).

The results of the examination can be shared with your general practitioner. For more information about preventive medical examinations, Prescan advises you to consult the following independent sources:

KNMG brochure

RIVM Health Tests website

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages

Early detection of potential gynecological abnormalities
Insight into the health of the uterus and ovaries
Safe examination, performed by a gynecologist
Can contribute to better understanding of hormonal processes, for example during the menstrual cycle or menopause

Disadvantages

Not suitable for acute or severe gynecological complaints; in such cases, always contact your general practitioner
No complete overview: not all conditions or symptoms are visible on an ultrasound, and additional examinations may sometimes be required
A preventive examination may detect abnormalities that do not cause symptoms or are harmless, but may still lead to follow-up examinations
In some cases, findings may be perceived as concerning, while it later turns out that there is no actual condition, which can cause unnecessary worry
Prescan does not provide diagnoses or treatment; in case of abnormal findings, you will be referred to your general practitioner for further evaluation

Alternatives

There are no direct alternatives available for this examination.

Risks

A gynecological ultrasound is a safe examination with no known risks. The procedure uses sound waves rather than radiation, making it harmless to the body.
The ultrasound is performed internally using a thin probe. This is generally not painful, but some women may experience mild discomfort.
No needles or other invasive instruments are used, and there are no known complications associated with a gynecological ultrasound.

Ultrasound equipment

At Prescan, we use ultrasound systems to perform gynecological examinations. A gynecological ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves (ultrasound) to create images of the female reproductive organs.

The equipment makes it possible to visualize the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding tissue. This allows the gynecologist to assess the structure and position of these organs and identify any abnormalities.

Ultrasound protocol

The ultrasound protocol at Prescan has been developed in collaboration with gynecologists and is aimed at a careful evaluation of the female reproductive organs.

During the examination, a thin ultrasound probe is inserted internally. It emits sound waves and captures the reflected signals, which are used to create images of the uterus and ovaries. The gynecologist can perform the examination from different angles to obtain as complete a view as possible.

Standard assessment includes:
- the shape and size of the uterus
- the structure of the endometrium (uterine lining)
- the ovaries and any notable findings
- visible abnormalities such as cysts, fibroids, or polyps

Although a standard protocol is followed, the gynecologist may adapt the examination to the individual situation. If necessary, additional images can be taken based on the findings during the examination.

Women's Health - MRI lower abdomen

What is examined in this program?

For women seeking clarity about their heart and hormones.

Specifications Women's Health Program - Lower Abdomen MRI

MRI scan

Provides insight into

General:

For women:

For men:

What we cannot assess well:

Pros and cons

Pros

Cons

Alternatives

(Not offered by Prescan)

Risks

Technical description

MRI Scanners

MRI Protocol

Cardiology

Provides Insight Into

Pros and cons

Pros:

Cons:

Alternatives:

Risks:

Technical Description

Echocardiography Equipment

Echocardiography Protocol

Provides Insight Into

Pros and cons

Pros

Cons:

Alternatives:

Risks

Technical Description

ECG Equipment

ECG Protocol

Laboratory

Provides insight into

Measurements:

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Alternatives

Risks

Technical description

Laboratory protocol

Gynaecology

Provides insight into

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages

Disadvantages

Alternatives

Risks

Ultrasound equipment

Ultrasound protocol

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