Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
What is an MRI Scan?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a strong magnet, radio waves and a computer to produce very detailed images of the inside of your body. MRI can be used to image almost any part of the body including the bones, blood vessels, ligaments, cartilage and nerves and organs such as the brain, spine, heart, abdomen and pelvis.
Client preparation for an MRI Scan?
As the MRI scanner uses a very strong magnet there are safety guidelines that must be followed. It is very important for you to contact the imaging department on 0131 447 2340 if you have any of the following:
- cardiac pacemaker
- cochlear (inner ear) implant
- artificial heart valve
- metal clips on blood vessels in your brain
- any surgery in the last six weeks
- metal in your eyes from an accident or working with it
Coloured/tinted contact lenses must be removed prior to examination so please bring a suitable container to put them in.
A music system is available, so feel free to bring along a CD or iPod that you can listen to whilst you have your scan.
Continue taking your normal medication unless you are told otherwise.
If you are pregnant or there is any possibility you may be pregnant, please inform the imaging department on 0131 447 2340.
What happens on arrival?
- Please report to the main reception area where you will be greeted by the administration staff. From there you will be escorted by a member of the imaging team to the imaging department. They will ask you a series of safety questions and explain the procedure of your scan to you. Any questions you have will be answered.
- You will then be taken to the client changing area and changed for your scan if this is appropriate. We provide gowns, tunic and trouser sets, dressing gowns and slippers for your comfort. There is also secure storage available.
What happens during the MRI Scan?
- A radiographer will take you into the MRI room and position you onto a comfortable couch. This is moved through the MRI scanner which is like a short tunnel, open at both ends.
- A small piece of equipment may be required to be placed over the part of the body to be scanned.
- The scanner can be very noisy. This may vary from a tapping noise through to a drilling sound. To complete your scan a number of “sequences” of noise of up to five minutes with quieter intervals must be performed. It is important during this noise to keep as still as possible.
- You will be given headphones to protect you from the noise. This also allows you to listen to music.
- During the entire examination the radiographer can see you clearly and talk to you through a two-way intercom system.
- An injection of a special dye (contrast agent) maybe required. This makes certain tissues or blood vessels show up more clearly and in greater detail. If you need an injection it will be given into a vein in your arm by the radiographer. Sometimes several scans will be taken before the contrast agent is injected and then further scans are taken after the injection. In general there are no side effects from this injection.
- Depending on the area being scanned the scan time may last between 20 and 60 minutes.
What happens after your MRI Scan?
- Once the examination is over and the images have been checked you will be able to get dressed and go home when you are ready. There are tea and coffee facilities available which you can enjoy in the comfort of the imaging lounge after your scan.
- The scan is reported by a radiologist. Your result will be sent to your referrer and they will contact you directly.