MRI Information
If you’ve been referred for an MRI scan at an InHealth Community Diagnostic Centre, you may be wondering what happens next. We understand that patients may be anxious about the scan and/or the process. Don’t worry, we have created lots of information here, so you can know what to expect. You will also receive this information in the post soon after your appointment is booked.
About your scan
With your appointment booked, it’s time to prepare for your scan, which is step 1 of a 3-step process. The information pack you will receive in the post will explain any pre-appointment requirements that apply to your scan type, and the time you will need to arrive at the diagnostic centre. Following your scan, your images will be studied by a consultant, and a findings report will be sent to your referrer.
step 1
Appointment
You attend your MRI appointment at the diagnostic centre, where a Radiographer will conduct your scan.
step 2
Reporting
A specialist Consultant will study your images and produce a written report, which is sent to your referrer.
step 3
Review
Your referrer will review your report and discuss its contents with you, along with any possible next steps.
What is an MRI?
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging which is a way of taking pictures inside the body without using x-rays. An MRI scanner is a large, hollow tube open at both ends. A strong magnetic field and radio waves are used to create images of organs and other structures inside you.
MRI is a safe, painless technique with no known risks, provided the safety questionnaire is correctly completed. Please ensure you read the information sent to you in full You can also download the information below.
Due to the magnet used by the scanner, people with certain types of medical implants or devices may not be able to be scanned. Some examples: people fitted with a pacemaker, some types of head surgery, certain metal implants or if there has ever been any injury to the eyes involving metal fragments.
What to expect from your MRI
With your appointment booked, it’s time to prepare for your appointment, which is step 1 of a 3-step process. The information pack you will receive in the post will explain any pre-appointment requirements that apply to your scan type, and the time you will need to arrive at the diagnostic centre. Following your scan, your images will be examined and a findings report will be sent to your referrer.
Time
The time taken for the scan will vary depending on what is being scanned but on average can take 20 to 40 minutes.
Noise
The MRI scanner will make loud and unusual noises whilst taking your pictures. Earphones and/or earplugs will be given, and music may be available.
Communication
There is an intercom in the scanner so you will be able to talk to the MRI operator between scans.
Control
You will be given a call bell whilst having your scan. Should you need to stop simply squeeze this and a member of staff will be straight in.
Comfort
We will use pads, cushions and supports to help make you more comfortable for the scan. It is important to be as comfortable as possible from the beginning to help you keep still throughout.
Magnet
An MRI scanner is a large, hollow cylinder open at both ends. A strong magnetic field and radio waves are used to create images of organs and other structures inside you.
Coil
A ‘receiving device’ like an aerial, may be placed behind or around the part of the body being examined. This detects the tiny radio signals emitted from the body during the scan.
Hazard
The MRI scanner uses a powerful magnet so people with certain types of medical implants or devices may not be able to be scanned. Please remove all metal from your body including loose change from your pockets.
Preparing for your scan
Unless specifically instructed, you can eat, drink and take any medications as normal, before your scan.
Where possible, please wear comfortable, loose clothing with minimal metal fastenings (such as zips and press studs). Thin cotton based clothing and minimal layers help encourage cooling during the scan. If necessary, you may be asked to change into a gown for your scan.
Please remove all metal from your body including loose change from your pockets. We will provide a locker in which you can store your metal items, watches, credit cards etc. You may prefer to leave valuable items at home.
After your scan
There are no after effects from the scan. You can return to your normal activities as soon as the scan is over.
Our scanning staff are specialists in obtaining high quality images. However, they are not trained to diagnose from these. The images from the scan are studied by a Consultant who will prepare a written report to send to your referrer.
If we spot anything that needs urgent attention when you are with us or, if the Consultant sees anything when writing your report, then there is a process in place to ensure this is reported to your referrer as soon as possible and the necessary steps taken to get you treatment quickly.
Patient Information Leaflets
Whilst you will receive paper copies of our patient information leaflets in the post, you can also read them here and/or download them to your device if you wish.