Your MRI Scan

What is an MRI Scan?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses simple radio waves in conjunction with a very powerful magnet to produce computerised sectional images of various parts of the body. Unlike some other imaging methods, MRI does not use x-rays and has no known side effects. The following information will tell you a little about what to expect from your scan.

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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, some surgical clips or certain other types of implants. For this reason you will be asked to fill in a medical questionnaire before arriving for your scan, and the radiographer will check your replies with you on the day. If you have ever had metal in your eye, we will need to arrange for you to have an X ray before your scan. We also try to avoid scanning patients during the early stages of pregnancy.

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Preparation

Please read through and fill out your safety questionnaire before you arrive on site. If you answer YES to any questions you MUST telephone us on 07967 195637 prior to attending for your appointment. The scanner is a mobile unit and although there are basic changing facilities it would be helpful if you could wear something comfortable without metal clips or zips. This will save you having to get changed for the scan.

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When you arrive

• Your safety questionnaire will be checked, the radiographer will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have.
• You will be asked to remove all metallic objects, credit cards, jewellery, spectacles and possibly make-up (mascara contains iron!)

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About the scan

• The scan is quite painless. You will not feel anything during the scan and the best thing to do is to relax.

• You can eat and drink normally beforehand and should continue taking any medications as normal.

• 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.
• 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.

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After the scan

Once the examination has finished you may go. The radiographer will not be able to discuss the images with you. The scans we have obtained will be interpreted by Dr. David Beale, Consultant Radiologist, who will send a report with the films to the clinic who sent you for the scan. These should usually be with them within five working days. You will realise that there may be delays which are outside our control.

At your review appointment you may ask to keep the scans for future follow up.

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