Information for patients > Services > MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Information for patients
It is perfectly understandable to be apprehensive when you arrive for an investigation, but staff at all our sites are kind, friendly, informative and helpful and will help you to feel relaxed and calm. The information below should give you a reasonable idea about how to prepare for your particular type of investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions - MRI scans
What do I need to do before my MRI scan?
What happens during the MRI scan?
What happens after the MRI scan?
What is MRI?
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a highly sophisticated imaging technique which is used to visualise soft tissue structures, bones and joints.
How does MRI work?
MRI combines a powerful magnet with radio-frequency pulses. The scanner collects signals that are then processed by a computer to display pictures of the inside of the body.
What is MRI used for?
MRI gives highly detailed pictures of the soft tissues within the body, for example muscles and ligaments. This capability allows MRI to be used in a wide range of investigations: from slipped discs to brain tumours, and from painful or injured joints to the assessment of blood flow.
What do I need to do before my MRI scan?
Unless you are told otherwise, no special preparation is needed for your scan and you may continue to eat and drink as normal and take any prescribed medicines. We will need to know beforehand if you are or could be pregnant. An MRI scanner can be quite enclosed depending on which part of the body is being imaged. If you suffer with claustrophobia let us know as we can arrange a visit to the scanner prior to your appointment and/or a sedative if necessary.
A radiographer will ensure you are wearing no metal and so you may need to be scanned in a gown. Before your scan you will also need to complete a safety questionnaire. Because of the powerful magnet used in MRI, not all patients can be scanned - such as those with a pacemaker, cochlear (ear) implant, certain surgical clips or metal fragments in the eyes. If you are concerned please contact our team before your scan appointment.
What happens during the MRI scan?
For your scan, you will lie on a comfortable scanning table that will slowly move into a doughnut shaped ring called a gantry. You will experience no discomfort or pain, but may hear quite loud mechanical sounds from the scanner. You will be given ear defenders to wear and offered music to listen to. You can bring your own CD if you wish.
For some types of scan, you may need to be given an injection of a contrast agent called gadolinium, which improves the quality of the images. This is very safe, although if you suffer from kidney problems you should contact us beforehand.
The radiographer operating the scanner can both see and hear you throughout the procedure so just speak if you have any concerns. We allow a friend or relative to accompany you in the scanner room if you wish provided they also pass the safety check. You can expect to be in the scanner for between 20 and 40 minutes.
What happens after the scan?
You should be able to go home straight away after the scan is finished. The results of your scan will be analysed by a consultant radiologist who will provide your doctor with a comprehensive report. Your doctor will then discuss the findings of the report with you and plan any treatment or next steps.
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