After checking in at the Registration Desk in the Diagnostic Imaging Department, you will make your way to the MRI waiting room.
There will be a clipboard with a form for you to complete while you wait.
A technologist will collect your completed form, and will escort you to the change rooms.
Here, you will put on a gown. Safety is our priority, and we must ensure there is no metal or metal fibres near the MRI.
There are lockers for you to store your clothing and personal belongings while you have your scan.
You will notice a few posts with a light on top. These are called Ferroguards. They are checkpoints to ensure all metal has been removed. The light on top should be green when you stand in front of it.
It's time for your scan. The technologist will escort you into the MRI area.
An injection of a contrast material is sometimes given before an MRI scan to help create a clearer picture of the body. The technologist will let you know if this is required.
Matt and John are our two MRI technologists. They are highly skilled at their job, and will ensure you are safe and comfortable during your scan. Feel free to ask them any questions you might have.
An MRI is painless and doesn't involve any moving parts or feelings from the magnetic field or radio waves. However, you might experience some discomfort or pain from lying still for the duration of the procedure, especially if you've recently had an injury or surgery. The MRI machine makes loud thumping and humming noises when it's turned on. You will be given earplugs to help reduce the noise.
Our technologists will be in an observation room and will capture the images from the scan. They will communicate with you throughout your scan, so you know what to expect. There is a microphone so they can hear you if you need to speak with them during the scan.
Once your scan is complete and the images have been saved, you will be escorted back to the change room to get dressed and gather your belongings.