The attending nurse will set a small needle for a contrasted MRI scan. You could be requested to fast 4 hours before the scan, and you will have to take off any jewellery, prostheses, hair clips, and other items that might contain metal. The test is not appropriate for people with certain medical devices implanted in their bodies, such as metal pins or pacemakers.
You will be lying on the couch which will move into the centre of the MRI gantry. The machine is quite noisy; however, you will be provided earplugs or headphones to wear during the procedure. You must remain still as much as possible throughout the scan. You may be nervous about the scan, but we will make our best efforts to make you feel at ease. Inform the radiographer if you are anxious. Although you will be alone in the room, the radiographer will be able to see, hear, and communicate with you via an intercom. You can raise your hand, speak with the radiographer, or press the emergency call bell if you need anything.
You will need to stay around 10-15 minutes for any contrasted scan to observe for any allergy reaction although it’s rare. For a plain scan, you can leave the department soon after the scan is completed.
