What is MRI?

MRI is a way of creating pictures of your body that does not use X-rays or radiation. The MRI machine makes pictures by organizing and collecting the magnetic fields that naturally occur within the body. MRI pictures show the soft tissues of the body (muscles, nerves, brain discs, ligaments etc.). In many situations MRI offers unique information to help your doctor better plan your treatment and care.

What will the MRI examination involve?

During the scan you will be asked to lie very still on a comfortable bed inside a large cylindrical machine, and thus opened at both ends. You will not feel anything whilst the scan is proceeding, but you will hear a loud knocking sound. This is quite normal. The Radiographer will be in contact with you throughout the examination, which typically takes between 25-40 minutes.

The inside of the scanner is well lit, and the room is air-conditioned.

Preparation for MRI

There is no need to stop medication. However, we do ask that you do not eat or drink two hours before the examination. For abdominal investigation please do not eat 5 hours before the scan.

It is important not to bring any metal into the scan room without letting the radiographers know. Before the scan you will be asked to remove your watch, keys, coins, credit cards, phone cards and mobile phones.

When you arrive at the MRI Unit, you will be asked a series of questions to find out if you have any metal or implants in your body.

You may be asked to change into a gown as zips may degrade the quality of the images. Ladies will be asked to remove eye make-up.

Depending upon the type of examination you may be required to have a small injection in your arm. This will not affect your ability to drive.

 

Important Safety Information

It is NOT possible to have an MRI examination if you have:

• A HEART PACEMAKER

• SURGICAL CLIPS WITHIN YOUR HEAD

• METALLIC HEART VALVES

• INNER EAR IMPLANTS

• METAL FRAGMENTS WITHIN YOUR EYE OR HEAD

• NEURO ELECTRICAL STIMULATORS

If you are pregnant, or suffer from claustrophobia please consult the MRI radiographers on 850-951-6200 from 8:00 till 5:00pm Monday to Friday.

If you have fillings or other dental fixtures, the MRI examination can still be carried out.

How will I receive the results?

A Consultant Radiologist will interpret your MRI scan and the results will be sent to your doctor who referred you for this examination.

Any Questions?

If you have any further queries or anxieties regarding your scan please contact the X-ray Appointment Desk on 850-951-6200 or Toll Free 888-892-3523 from Monday to Friday 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.