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MRI - Patient Information

MRI introduction MRI History MRI how it works MRI patient info

bullet What is MRI Used for?
bullet How do I prepare for the procedure?
bullet What happens during the MRI scan?
bullet How long does it take?
bullet Will I feel any pain?
bullet Is it dangerous? What are the side effects?
bullet What happens after the scan?

What is MRI used for?

MRI can be used to look at all organs of the body to identify diseases and abnormal anatomy. Because it can produce highly detailed images it is especially useful in looking for problems with the brain and spinal cord, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or tumours.  MRI is the investigation of choice for viewing the vertebra and discs within the spinal cord. 

MRI is also used to study the heart, the blood vessels of the heart (coronary arteries) and large blood vessels in the chest, such as the aorta. MRI is able to detect damage to the heart caused by heart disease. MRI can also be used to look at other organs in the body such as lungs, liver, kidney and spleen to diagnose disease. It is often the preferred investigation when doctors want to look at the male or female reproductive systems.

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How do I prepare for the procedure?

Usually you do not need to make any special preparation for a MR scan. You can eat and drink normally unless you have been informed otherwise. When you arrive at MRI, you will be asked a series of questions to find out if you have any metal implants in your body, such as a pacemaker, artificial heart valves, prosthetic joints, metal clips and pins. It may not be possible, or safe, to have an MRI scan if you have any of these items:

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Cardiac pacemaker

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Surgical clips in your head (particularly aneurysm clips)

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Some types of artificial heart valves

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Cochlea ear implants

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Metal fragments in your eyes

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Electric stimulators

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Implanted pumps

You will be advised as to whether or not you are allowed to have the scan. If you are pregnant you should also advise the radiographer. Before the scan you may be asked to wear a hospital gown and will be asked to remove all metallic objects such as jewelry, glasses and hair pins.

Before the scan a dye may be injected into your arm or you may be asked to drink a fluid to make certain organs in the scan stand out more. These rarely ever have side effects, but you should tell the radiographer of any allergies you have beforehand. Patients may feel claustrophobic within the tunnel of the MRI scanner. If you are claustrophobic you may be given a mild sedative to make you feel more comfortable before the scan.

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What happens during the MRI scan?

The technician will bring you into the room and position you on the moveable bed.  Try to be comfortable and relaxed as you will be asked to lie still. You will be alone in the room but will be able to communicate with the staff through an intercom and they will be watching you throughout the scan. During the scan the moveable bed will move through into the tunnel of the scanner. You will hear loud knocking and banging noises from the machine, this is normal and you should not be worried. You will probably be given headphones or ear plugs for the noise.

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How long does it take?

Depending on which part of the body is under investigation the scan may take from ½ an hour to 1½ hours. The whole process will finish once the radiographer is satisfied the scans have been successfully completed.

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Will I feel any pain?

The MRI does not cause any pain. You will just hearing loud knocking and banging noises which may be uncomfortable.

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Is it dangerous? What are the side effects?

MRI scanning does not involve exposure to ionising radiation such as X-rays. There are no known dangers or side effects with MRI scanning. MRI causes a slight heating of the body and there is a small theoretical risk to the foetus in the first 3 months of pregnancy. Therefore scans are not usually performed in this time.

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What Happens after the scan?

After the scan once the radiologist is happy that he has collected enough information you are free to go back without any restrictions. If you had sedation you will be advised when you can eat and drink again and should be driven home by a friend.

The radiologist will interpret the results and send a report to your doctor. Your doctor will explain the results to you and tell you what the significance is for you. 

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MRI CT Refrences