Having an MRI
What is an MRI?
The MRI scanner is a wide circular tube which is open at both ends. MRI uses a very strong magnet to produce cross-sectional images of the body.
The magnet in the scanner collects information and sends it to the computer in the control room which displays your images.
The scanner is very noisy while it collects the images, and it is important you stay still so clear pictures can be taken.
Are there any special preparations required?
- Due to the strong magnetic field, some people may not be able to have an MRI scan. You will be sent a safety questionnaire with your appointment letter, it is very important to complete this questionnaire prior to your appointment. You must contact us if you have any of the following implants:
- Heart pacemaker
- Artificial heart valve
- Metal fragments in the eye, head or body
- Aneurysm clips (these are metal clips inserted during some operations, especially on the blood vessels in the brain)
- Blood vessel stents
- or if you answer 'yes' to any of the questions on your safety questionnaire.
- You may eat and drink normally and continue to take your usual medication.
- You may wish to leave your jewellery at home for safe keeping; items will have to be removed prior to your scan.
Are there any risks?
- The MRI scanner does not use X-rays and currently has no known side effects or risks and can be used as often as needed.
- Having something metallic in your body doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t have an MRI scan, but it’s important for Radiographer’s carrying out the scan to be aware of it. (see special preparations above)
- The noise that the MRI scanner produces is fairly loud, but it is within the recommended safety guidelines and ear protection is provided.
- MRI is considered to be a very safe way of producing images that can diagnose many medical conditions.
What happens during the scan
- From reception you will be called through to the MRI preparation area.
- Please try to wear clothing without any metal. Please try to wear trousers with no metal fastenings or eyelets, tops and bras with no metal zips, patterns, clips or adjuster straps. If any of your clothing has metal on, it will need to be removed, a gown will be provided for you.
- You will be required to remove anything that is metal and removable, including jewellery, piercings, phone, watch, belt, wallet, and coins. Lockers are provided to keep your belongings secure.
- A member of staff will go through the MRI safety questionnaire with you.
- A team, including Radiographers and Imaging Department Assistants will look after you and assist you into the scanner.
- They can assist you to lie down and will make you as comfortable as possible.
- You will be provided with ear plugs and headphones as the scanner will make a series of loud noises as the images are being taken.
- You will be given a call bell if you need the Radiographer during the scan.
- The MRI scanner table will then move you into the scanner. This may move at times during the scan.
- The scanner is operated by the Radiographer from a different room as it needs to be kept away from the magnetic field. They can see you throughout the scan.
- You must keep very still throughout your MRI; this will ensure the images are good quality.
Please don’t worry about your scan. We are here to help, if you have any fears or doubts, don’t hesitate to talk to one of our staff.
Occasionally, some examinations require the use of a contrast agent to demonstrate some structures, the use of contrast carries a very small risk of reaction: the incidence of severe reaction with non-ionic agents is 0.04% and very serious reaction is 0.004% (Royal College of Radiologists figures).
If your scan requires contrast, you will have been asked to have some blood taken first, this may be either at your GP or in the hospital. This is to check your kidney function and ensure it is safe for you to have the contrast.
Please let the department know if you have any allergies. This dye will be given through an intravenous cannula which will be inserted by the radiographers prior to the scan and removed after the examination.
How long will it take?
- Your scan can take between 15 minutes to 1 hour depending on what we are scanning and different body areas.
- Each area of the body takes between 15 to 40 minutes to scan; multiple body areas take additional time.
- Whilst we endeavour to ensure that you are seen at your appointment time sometimes emergencies may have to take priority. We ask for your patience and understanding should this occur; we will keep you informed of any delays.
After your scan
- You do not need to remain in the department after your scan, you can attend any other appointments you have, go to work or go home.
- A consultant radiologist will review the scan and issue a report.
- The images and results will be forwarded to the consultant/practitioner in charge of your care.
- If not already arranges, your consultant/practitioner will send you an appointment to discuss the results of the scan.
Contact details
Imaging Department - 0121 812 3370 /
If you are unable to keep your appointment it is important that you let us know as soon as you can on the contact details provided above. Failure to inform us may mean that you will not be sent a further appointment in the future.