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In some cases, a frame may be placed over the body part being scanned, such as the head or chest. You'll enter the scanner either head first or feet first, depending on the part of your body being scanned. You'll lie on a motorised bed that's moved inside the scanner. During the scanĪn MRI scanner is a short cylinder that's open at both ends. This is because it's very important to stay still during the scan, which babies and young children are often unable to do when they're awake. If you decide to have a sedative during the scan, you'll need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home afterwards, as you won't be able to drive for 24 hours.īabies and young children may be given a general anaesthetic before having an MRI scan. You should ask your GP or consultant well in advance of having the scan.

If you're claustrophobic, you can ask for a mild sedative to help you relax. Anaesthesia and sedativesĪn MRI scan is a painless procedure, so anaesthesia (painkilling medication) isn't usually needed. You should let the staff know if you have a history of allergic reactions or any blood clotting problems before having the injection. If you have a history of kidney disease, you may be given a blood test to determine how well your kidneys are functioning and whether it's safe to proceed with the scan. It's also possible for contrast dye to cause tissue and organ damage in people with severe kidney disease. These side effects are usually mild and don't last very long. Sometimes the contrast dye can cause side effects, such as: This makes certain tissues and blood vessels show up more clearly and in greater detail. Some MRI scans involve having an injection of contrast dye. If you don't need to wear a gown, you should wear clothes without metal zips, fasteners, buttons, underwire (bras), belts or buckles. wigs (some wigs contain traces of metal)Īny valuables can usually be stored in a secure locker.ĭepending on which part of your body is being scanned, you may need to wear a hospital gown during the procedure.piercings, such as ear, nipple and nose rings.jewellery, such as earrings and necklaces.

Once you have completed the questionnaire, you'll usually be asked to give your signed consent for the scan to go ahead.Īs the MRI scanner produces strong magnetic fields, it's important to remove any metal objects from your body. Read more about who can and can't have an MRI scan. This helps the medical staff to ensure you have the scan safely. When you arrive at the hospital, you'll usually be asked to fill in a questionnaire about your health and medical history. In some cases, you may be asked not to eat or drink anything for up to 4 hours before the scan, and sometimes you may be asked to drink a fairly large amount of water beforehand. On the day of your MRI scan, you should be able to eat, drink and take any medication as usual, unless you're advised otherwise. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a painless procedure that lasts 15 to 90 minutes, depending on the size of the area being scanned and the number of images being taken.