Having an MRI scan

How do I prepare for my scan?

  When you arrive, a member of staff will complete a safety checklist with you to make sure that you can be scanned, and will answer any questions that you may have. There is usually no need for any special preparation before your scan. On the day of your scan you will probably be able to eat and drink as normal and take any medicine you have been prescribed - if not, we will tell you when you book your appointment. You will need to remove all metal objects such as zips, jewellery, hair grips and so on before entering the scan room because of the powerful magnet that is used to scan.  Credit cards are also affected by the magnet - you can leave these and other valuables in the lockers provided. Please do not wear mascara if you are having a scan of your head or eyes as it contains fine metallic particles which affect the pictures.

We will ask you to change into a gown if you are wearing clothes that contain metal. You may prefer to arrive for your scan in clothes which do not contain metal, for example you could wear a zipless tracksuit or an elasticated skirt. If you do this you will not have to change for your scan

What should I expect?

The Radiographer will position you on a comfortable couch, which slides into the scanner.  You will be asked to keep still while we scan you and produce your
images. MRI is a completely harmless procedure, but the scanner is very noisy when it is taking pictures so we will provide you with ear protection. We will be able to play music during your scan so you may like to bring a CD with you to listen to.
There are no after-effects from your scan so you can carry on with all your normal activities (driving, for example) straight away.

How long will it take?

This depends on which part of the body is being scanned. Most scans of one area are completed in 20-30 minutes. Although we try to keep to appointment times, we don't always know beforehand exactly how long a particular scan will take. This means that occasionally an appointment time may be slightly delayed and we would appreciate your understanding if this happens to you.

Is it safe?

There is no potentially harmful radiation used for your MRI scan, so it is considered to be very safe. However, because the scanner uses a strong magnet it is important that you tell us if you have certain implants or if you have had certain operations.  If you have a pacemaker, arterial clips,  a neurostimulator, an artificial heart valve, brain clips, a cochlear implant or some sort of metal fragment in your eyes you CANNOT be scanned.  Implants such as knee or hip replacements, dental work and gold/silver rings are perfectly safe

Will I need an injection?

Occasionally we will need to give you an injection of contrast (a dye which makes blood vessels and organs show up more clearly) to give better images.  This is normally given into the arm or the back of the hand by a qualified member of staff.

What if I am pregnant?

There are currently no known dangers from MRI, although we do not carry out scanning in the first three months of pregnancy unless essential.

For your comfort..

We can make arrangements for your individual needs and comfort, for example we can sometimes allow family members into the MRI area with you, or we may be able to find more comfortable positions for you to be in while you are being scanned.

Lastly - relax

Don't worry about your scan. We are here to help.  If you have any fears or doubts, don't hesitate to talk to one of our staff.  If you would like to visit the department before your scan to have a look around, please contact us.

Results

Your referrer should receive your scan images and report within a week. The referrer is the person who has sent you for your MRI (for example, your GP or Physiotherapist.) You should make an appointment with your referrer to discuss the results. The radiographer will not be able to give you your results on the day of your scan.

 

 

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