FAQs

Some frequently asked questions that you may have relating to medical imaging in general.

If you don’t find the information you need, please feel free to contact us.

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging.  It uses an extremely powerful magnetic field to produce images of the patient’s body.  MRI is a very sensitive way to detect the cause of a patients symptoms,  without using radiation.

Most patients can safely have MRI performed.  Patients who have pacemakers or other implanted devices may need special precautions, or another type of scan.

Usually between 20 and 60 minutes, though potentially longer for complex examinations.

There is no known adverse effect of MRI.

Although there is no known adverse effect of MRI on a baby, the safety of MRI during pregnancy has not been confirmed.  MRI is only performed during pregnancy when the potential benefit of the scan outweighs the small potential risk to the baby.

No.  Occasionally patients experience a warm or tingling sensation, but the scan will not cause pain.