Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
What is an MRI scan?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and computer processing to create detailed pictures of tissues and organs inside the body. Unlike CT and standard X-rays, MRI does not use ionising radiation.
MRI is especially helpful when a doctor needs to examine soft tissues that may be difficult to assess on other scans. Images can show the brain and spinal cord, joints, muscles, ligaments and selected abdominal or pelvic organs in different planes.
Some MRI examinations use an injected contrast agent to make particular tissues or abnormalities easier to evaluate. The imaging team will explain whether contrast is required for your referral.
What to expect
- Complete the MRI safety questionnaire carefully. Tell the team about pacemakers, implants, hearing devices, surgical clips, metal fragments or previous operations.
- Inform staff if you may be pregnant, have kidney disease, have had a contrast reaction or feel anxious in enclosed spaces.
- Remove jewellery, watches, phones, bank cards and other metal-containing items before entering the scanner room.
- Follow any examination-specific instructions about eating, drinking, medicines or contrast; these vary by body area.
- You will lie on a padded table that moves into the MRI scanner. A coil may be positioned around the area being examined to obtain clearer images.
- The scanner makes loud tapping or knocking sounds while images are taken. Hearing protection will be provided.
- Remain as still as possible; movement can blur images and may mean that a sequence needs to be repeated.
- The radiographer can communicate with you during the scan. Depending on the study, you may be asked to hold your breath briefly or receive contrast.
- Most patients can return to their usual activities immediately after a routine MRI.
- If contrast was administered, follow any advice given by the team and report symptoms that concern you.
- If you received a sedative, you may need someone to take you home and should follow the discharge instructions.
- Your images will be reviewed and a report sent through the agreed referral process.
Safety and results
- MRI does not use ionising radiation, but its strong magnetic field means some implants, devices or metal fragments require special assessment.
- Do not enter the MRI room with metal objects or electronic devices unless the team has specifically cleared them.
- Tell staff about pregnancy, kidney problems and any previous reaction to MRI contrast so the examination can be planned appropriately.
- If you experience discomfort, anxiety or any unexpected symptoms during the examination, alert the radiographer using the communication system.
Please contact our team if you have questions about your examination or preparation instructions.
A radiologist examines the MRI images and prepares a report describing the relevant findings. The report is provided to your referring healthcare professional, who will explain what the findings mean alongside your symptoms and other tests. Some examinations may need comparison with earlier scans or additional investigation; your referring clinician will advise you if this is necessary.
For questions about your findings or treatment, please speak to your referring healthcare professional.
For questions about your findings or treatment, please speak to your referring healthcare professional.