How Long Does An MRI Take

What is an MRI scan?

Magnetic resonance imaging is a type of scan that uses radio waves and strong magnetic fields to create detailed images of inside the body.

An MRI scanner consists of a large tube with powerful magnets. During the scan, you lie down inside the tube.

Any part of the body can be examined using an MRI scan.

The results of an MRI can be used for:

• Diagnose conditions
• plan treatments
• Assess the effectiveness of previous treatments

Before an MRI scan

You can eat and drink as normal on the day of your MRI unless otherwise advised.

You may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking anything up to four hours prior to the scan. Some patients will be told to drink a lot of water before the scan. It depends on the area that is being scanned.

You will be asked to complete and sign a medical and health history questionnaire when you arrive at the scan. This will help ensure your safety when you have the scan.

It is important to remove all metal objects before undergoing an MRI scan. They include:

• Watches
• Jewellery, such as earrings and necklaces
• Piercings such as nose, ear, and nipple rings
• dentures (false teeth)
• Hearing aids
• Some wigs may contain metal traces
• hairpins
• Medicine patches (such as nicotine or hormone patches).
• Glucose monitors
• Insulin pumps that are tethered to a patch or tethered

Avoid bringing any valuables to your MRI. You can store any valuables that you bring in a safe locker.

You may be required to wear a hospital gown depending on the part of your body being scanned.

If you do not need to wear a dress, wear clothing without metal zippers, fasteners, or buttons. Also, avoid wearing underwire bras, belts, and buckles.

Can an MRI scan be dangerous?

An MRI scan is a safe and painless procedure. The magnetic fields and radio waves used in MRI scans have been extensively researched to determine if they pose a danger to the body. MRI scans have been proven to be one of the most safe medical procedures.

Some patients may feel a tingling or hot sensation while in the MRI scanner. These effects should only last for a few minutes and disappear as soon as you finish the scan.

The Radio graphers can be alerted if there are any concerns you may have during the scan by a squeeze alarm.

Patients with certain foreign objects or implants may not need an MRI. Tell the person who refers you to the scan if you have metal in your body. The person referring you for the scan can check this before the scan.

Contrast agents

In some MRI scans, a contrast agent is injected. It allows certain blood vessels and tissues to be seen more clearly.

The contrast agent may cause some side effects, such as:

• feeling or being sick
• A skin rash
• headache
• dizziness

These side effects usually are mild and do not last long.

Contrast agents can also cause organ and tissue damage in people who have severe renal disease. Blood tests may be used to assess how well your kidneys function and whether the scan is safe.

Before receiving the injection, you should inform the staff if there is a history of blood clotting issues.

Anesthesia and sedatives

Anaesthesia (painkilling medicine) is not usually required for an MRI scan.

You can request a mild sedative if you are claustrophobic. Ask your GP before the scan.

You will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours if you choose to take a sedative.

Before an MRI scan, babies and young children can be given an anesthetic. It’s important that the child or baby remain still for the MRI scan.