The day before
Drink plenty of fluids so you are well hydrated
Day of scan
Arrive 20 mins before appointment and bring any relevant previous imaging for comparison
Prior to scan
Gown and cannula if required
The MRI Scan
lie as still as possible
After the scan
Finalise appointemnt with reception
No. You will not feel anything. A call button will be given to you before the exam is started. It will allow you to maintain two way communication with the technologist at any time during the exam.
No. The MRI scanner can scan almost any part of the body but each scan is limited to a specific area. It can take from 30-60 minutes to scan each area.
The area of the scanner that creates the images is located in the centre of the magnet and is called the isocentre. Therefore, in order to scan your head most of your upper body will be in the scanner. The same is true when imaging the spine and upper extremities.
No, an MRI will not cause fillings in your teeth (if in proper condition) to dislodge or come out. The metal in most fillings is not affected by the MR system's magnetic field. However, fillings and orthodontic braces may cause some distortion of the images if you are having a scan of your neck, brain or facial area.
Yes. MRI scans are often preferred for children as there is no radiation used. It is helpful to show your child some videos on Youtube of an MRI machine so they are aware of the loud noise and that they have to lie very still.