The Process

You can view a video entitled:

"What to Expect During Your MRI Exam" by clicking on the link below.

http://www.imrser.org/PatientVideo.html

You will be asked to lie on the scanner bed where you will be made as comfortable as possible. The position will vary depending on the part of the body that is being scanned. For example, for a scan of the neck you will be asked to lie with your neck in a specially shaped support.

You should tell the staff if you are not comfortable as you will need to keep very still during the scan, which may take up to 45 minutes to complete. There will be an intercom in the scanning room or some other means of communicating with the staff during the scan. Once you are ready to start, you will be moved into the scanner. Each set of pictures takes about five minutes, and while the pictures are being taken, you will hear a knocking sound. You will be given the option of wearing ear plugs.This noise means the scanner is collecting information to produce the pictures and therefore you must keep very still. If you move while the pictures are being taken, the pictures could be blurred and the scan may need to be repeated. Several sets of pictures may be taken during each examination and there will be a short pause between them. The scanner will go quiet between pictures; during this time, the staff will be setting up for the next set.

Will I need an injection?

When certain areas of the body are scanned, you may need an injection of a special dye known as a contrast agent that helps to see more detail on the pictures. If you need an injection, it will be given into a vein in your arm by a radiologist or one of the technologists trained to give injections. Sometimes several scans will be taken before the dye is injected and then further scans are taken after the injection. You will be advised if you require an injection when your appointment is confirmed.

Can anyone be with me during the scan?

As there are no harmful rays, a friend or relative can stay with you in the room during the scan. Anyone coming into the scan will also be asked questions about pacemakers and metal objects in their body, and will be asked to remove all metallic objects such as watches and jewelry.

What happens after the scan?

There are no after-effects from the scan so you can carry on with your normal activities immediately.

The radiologist sends the results directly to the referring physician. You also get to keep a CD copy of your MRI scans.