From heartburn and indigestion to bloating and constipation, many people experience gastrointestinal symptoms at least once in their lifetime. Most of the time these symptoms are minor and go away on their own or with simple treatments.
There are some instances however, where abdominal symptoms need further investigation. For example, if you are experiencing unexplained abdominal pain that is persistent or severe, you should speak to your health care practitioner. This is especially true if your pain is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
To investigate their cause, your doctor will need to discuss all your symptoms. They will ask you where your pain is, what your pain feels like, how often you feel it, and how severe it is. Your abdomen is home to your stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and large and small intestines, so the location of your pain may indicate which organs are affected.
Your answers will help your doctor determine if your symptoms are temporary and not serious, or if they need to order blood or medical imaging tests to gather more information about what is causing your symptoms. For example, your health care practitioner might order an ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan of your abdomen. Abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be ordered.
MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to provide very clear images of the body and is often ordered to clarify findings from earlier ultrasound or CT exams.
Abdominal MRI provides detailed pictures of the abdominal and pelvic areas from many views and can help check for gallstones or biliary duct stones, liver disease, tumours, and infection. It can evaluate:
MRI exams are non-invasive and don’t use radiation. This type of imaging is very good at distinguishing abnormal from normal tissues. This can help your doctor better determine a tumour’s size, severity, and spread.
Magnetic resonance imaging helps health care practitioners make a diagnosis and inform care decisions. Once your doctor has identified the need for this exam, your doctor’s office may book an appointment for you, or provide you with a number to call to book your appointment.
MRI exams are available in hospitals and covered under the Alberta and Saskatchewan Health Care Insurance Plans. In Alberta, we offer the same studies as private pay exams, for when patients may be unable to wait to receive an exam through the public health system.
An MRI’s magnetic field strength is measured in teslas (T). At our Mayfair Place location in Calgary, we offer both 1.5T and 3T MRI services. Having two magnet strengths provides greater options to use MRI to more specifically meet the imaging needs of various medical conditions.
In Saskatchewan, we offer MRIs as a publicly funded, community-based service under contract with the Saskatchewan Health Authority and as private pay exams. Private MRI services in Saskatchewan are provided in accordance with and under the legislation of the Province of Saskatchewan at our Regina and Saskatoon locations.
Whether public or private, an MRI must be requested by a health care practitioner who will provide a requisition. Mayfair Diagnostics will schedule your exam and provide you with detailed information to prepare for it.
For an abdominal MRI, you will be asked to fast and have nothing to eat or drink (except water) for four hours prior to your exam. You will also be asked to wear comfortable clothes free of metal zippers or buttons, including metal-free underwear. It generally takes between 30-60 minutes to complete this exam.
Once in the exam room you may be asked to change into a gown or scrubs. If a contrast solution is needed, we will insert an intravenous (IV) line. (Please note that IV contrast is an additional cost of $250.) Once the IV is in place your technologist will position you on the cushioned scanner table in the MRI suite. We will do our best to make you comfortable.
An MRI can be loud, so you will be provided with headphones or ear plugs to reduce the noise. Eye masks are also available upon request for patients who have difficulty relaxing in a confined space. You will be given an emergency call bell to stop the exam, if needed. Once you are relaxed and comfortable, a sensor will be positioned around the body part being scanned. The table will then move slowly into the MRI scanner, which is well lit and ventilated.
You will be asked to hold very still, as movement may result in blurring of images. Your technologist will be close by at all times. You may be asked to hold your breath for some of the images. Breath holds can last between 5-25 seconds. Once we have successfully captured your images, your IV will be removed (if you have one) and you are free to leave.
MRI images are created using a magnetic field, which can attract metal objects or may cause metal in your body to move. This means that before an MRI can be performed all patients will need to be screened to exclude internal metal objects or hardware that are not safe in the MRI. The inside of the MRI scanner can feel small to some people and there are noises caused by changes in the magnetic field, which require ear protection.
When using MRI contrast, an injectable gadolinium dye, there is a small risk of allergic reaction. However, you will be asked about your allergies and other medical conditions when booking your exam.
Your images will be reviewed by a specialized radiologist who will compile a report that is sent to your doctor within 24 hours, sooner for urgent requests. Mayfair Diagnostics is owned and operated by over 50 radiologists who are sub-specialty trained, which guarantees an expert opinion of your imaging.
Your images will be uploaded to a provincial picture archiving and communication system (PACS) – this technology provides electronic storage and convenient access to your medical images from multiple sources, such as your doctor, specialists, hospitals, and walk-in clinics.
Your doctor will review your images and the report from the radiologist and discuss next steps with you, such as a treatment plan or the need for further diagnostic imaging or lab tests to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Mayfair Diagnostics offers MRI imaging as a private pay service at our Mayfair Place location in Calgary, and as both public and private pay exams at our Regina and Saskatoon locations in Saskatchewan. For more information, please visit our services page or call our toll-free number 1-866-611-2665.
American College of Gastroenterology (2022) “Common GI Symptoms.” www.gi.org. Accessed July 22, 2022.
Cleveland Clinic (2022) “Abdominal Pain.” www.my.clevelandclinic.org. Accessed July 22, 2022.
Healthwise Staff (2021) “MRI of the Abdomen: About This Test.” www.myhealth.alberta.ca. Accessed July 14, 2022.
LeBedis, C. A., et al (2012) “Current applications of MRI in emergent gastrointestinal diseases.” www.appliedradiology.com. Accessed July 22, 2022.
Miller, B. J. (2021) “What Is Abdominal Pain? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention” www.everydayhealth.com. Accessed July 22, 2022.
Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.
Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.
Diagnostic Imaging Assistant (DIA) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.
Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.
Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.
Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.
Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care. They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.
We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:
Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:
EXCELLENCE
We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.
CURIOSITY
We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.
PASSION
We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.
COLLABORATION
Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.
SERVICE
We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.
Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.
Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.
OUR TEAMS
We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.
OUR VISION
We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.
We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.
We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.
