What will I have to do before my scan?
Please remove all jewellery and wrist watches and if possible, wear clothing without any metal fasteners or zips.
You will be greeted by a radiographer or health care assistant who will check your details, area that is being scanned and will confirm the answers to your safety questionnaire.
You may be asked to change into a gown and your belongings will be securely locked away.
What will happen during my scan?
The MRI scanner is open at both ends and has a moveable couch which slides into the machine.
You will be asked to lie on the couch and made comfortable. The part of the body being examined is placed in the middle of the scanner. You will be given a call button to gain the Radiographer’s attention if required.
The scan takes approximately 30 minutes depending on the specific examination, during which time it is important to lie very still. The machine is noisy and will make knocking or buzzing sounds throughout the scan and you will be provided with earplugs or headphones to protect your ears.
Some examinations require a small quantity of contrast dye to be injected by a vein in your hand or arm in order to help with a diagnosis. The radiographer will discuss this with you at the time of your appointment and will place a small cannula (thin plastic tube) into a vein in your hand or arm. Side effects are unlikely and you can drive and continue as normal after the procedure.
When will I get my results?
After your examination there will be many images which will need to be reviewed by a consultant, so we will not be able to give you an instant result.
You will need to make an appointment with the clinician who requested your scan to discuss the results. Usually, this process takes approximately one week.