Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a technique for producing images of various parts of the body, using a specialised machine which uses a large magnet, radio waves, receiver coil and a computer to produce a cross-sectional image of the body. 

MRI is a painless procedure, although some of the scans may give you a warm feeling.

Before your scan

It is most important that you have filled in your safety questionnaire and contacted the department if you have answered “yes” to any of the relevant questions. 

You need to bring your completed safety questionnaire. 

If you wear or bring metal-free clothing, you may not need to change into a gown. Do not wear heavy eye make-up.

Lockers are provided for your belongings, but you are advised to leave any unnecessary valuables at home.

The scan

During the scan:

• You will be asked to lie on the scan table and we will ensure you are as comfortable as possible.
• The table is then positioned in the scanner.
• During the scan it is very important to remain still, as with any imaging, as movement produces blurred images. 
• The scanner makes a lot of noise while scanning; patients must wear ear defenders or ear plugs which will be provided for your comfort.
• You will be able to communicate between scans with the radiographer via the ear defenders, which have a two-way microphone attached. 

The average time is about 20 to 30 minutes. However, depending on your particular examination, it may take up to an hour. 

Sometimes it is necessary to give you an injection to show the blood vessels around the area being examined. If an injection of a contrast agent is necessary, you will be advised of this at the time. The injection is given into a vein, usually near the elbow or on the back of the hand. 

Results

The scan results are not available on the day of your examination. All the images produced are reviewed by a consultant radiologist, who is a doctor specialising in reporting this type of scan. 

You will then be sent an appointment to see the doctor who organised the scan to discuss the results when they are available.