Role of magnetic resonance in bowel pathologies: Beyond inflammatory bowel disease

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has an established role for identifying and monitoring inflammatory bowel disease. This review summarizes key MRI findings and select technique considerations for bowel pathologies beyond inflammatory bowel disorders, emphasizing how imaging features within this modality can support diagnosis and assist with management. We highlight MRI features of inflammatory and infectious conditions, mechanical obstruction, neoplasms, and mesenteric ischemia. We also discuss how particular imaging techniques may improve diagnostic confidence, including diffusion-weighted imaging when contrast cannot be administered and rapid motion-robust sequences to reduce motion artifacts from peristalsis and breathing.