MRI - what to expect

Safety

Although there are no known side-effects associated with MRI, there are certain people who we cannot scan for safety reasons. They are people with pacemakers, metal fragments in their eyes, surgical clips or certain other types of implants. For this reason you will be asked to fill in a medical questionnaire and the radiographer will check your replies with you. We also try to avoid scanning patients during the early stages of pregnancy unless there are good medical reasons for doing so. Please note that all underwear containing metal needs to be removed. It may also be advisable to wear loose baggy clothing with no metal e.g. tracksuit bottoms, t-shirt, sweatshirt etc. and it would be helpful to remove metallic objects before your scan appointment, which includes keys. It can sometimes become cold in the scanner, so it may be advisable to wear socks.

Before your Appointment

There are a few MR examinations that require preparation such as avoiding food and drink so it is important that you read your appointment letter and patient information leaflet to check what you need to do before attending. The leaflet also provides you with useful information on how best to dress for the scan, what to bring with you and what to leave at home.

If you need help because you speak a different language, please let us know when you book your appointment.

When you Arrive

Your safety questionnaire will be checked, the radiographer will explain the procedure to you and will answer any questions you may have.

You will be asked to remove all metallic objects, credit cards, jewellery, spectacles and possibly, make-up. You may also be asked to change into a hospital gown.

The Scan

Once you are ready for your scan, the radiographer will position you on the scanner couch and make you as comfortable as possible. It is vital that you lie still for the scan – being comfortable from the outset will help.

During the scan you will hear loud, rhythmic knocking sounds. This is normal and you will be given ear defenders to keep noise to a minimum. (It may also be possible to listen to music during your scan and this will be discussed at the time of your appointment).

You will be given a buzzer to hold which you can use to summon attention and the radiographer can talk with you as the scan progresses.

In some parts of the body, the tissues may be lacking in natural contrast and a small injection may have to be given to enhance the images. In most instances, this injection will be given into a vein at the elbow. Please contact the unit you will be attending if you have known renal (kidney) disease, a history of multiple or severe allergies or you would like to ask questions about the injection.

After the Scan

Once the scan is finished you may go. The many images we have obtained will be studied by a radiologist (a doctor expert in the interpretation of MRI scans) who will then send his report to the doctor who sent you for the scan.