MRI Scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

Doctors might use an MRI scan to show:

• If a lump or abnormal area is cancer or not 
• The size of the cancer and if it has spread.

Before the scan the hospital will send you information so you know what to expect.

• If you are having a scan of your tummy (abdomen), you might be asked to not eat anything for a few hours before the scan. This helps to get a clear picture.
• Some people feel a bit claustrophobic (a fear of confined spaces) in the scanner. If you are worried about the scan, you may be able to have a sedative to help you relax while you are being scanned. You should ask your GP or doctor about a sedative before you go for the scan.

The scan uses magnets so we need to be careful with metal. For this reason the radiographer will go through a checklist.

• About any metal implants you have, such as surgical clips, bone pins, artificial joints and heart valves.
• About electrical devices, such as a pacemaker, implanted defibrillators, nerve simulators or cochlear implants.
• We want to know if you have ever worked with metal or in the metal industry. As very tiny fragments of metal can sometimes lodge in the body, especially the eyes.
• You should tell your radiographer if you are pregnant or think you could be.
• You can usually wear your own clothes if they do not have metal zips or buttons. Don't worry if you do not have clothes without metal, you can change into a gown.

Having metal in your body does not necessarily mean you cannot have an MRI scan. Your doctor and radiographer will decide if the MRI scan is safe for you. If you are not able to have an MRI scan, another type of scan can be used. 

You will be asked to lie very still on a bed. The bed moves slowly through the middle of a cylinder tube.
 Some people are given an injection of a dye into a vein in the arm during the scan. It does not usually cause any discomfort. The dye is called a contrast medium. It helps certain types of tissues to show up more clearly on the scan. It is only given when necessary.

The radiographer leaves the room during the scan, but can see you through a screen. You will be able to talk to them through an intercom while you are having the scan.

Here are some points that tell you about the scan:

• The scan is not painful, but lying still on the bed during the scan can be a bit uncomfortable. It usually takes between 15 minutes and an hour.
• The scanner is very noisy and you will be given earplugs or headphones. It may be possible to listen to music during the scan.
• You will need to lie still on the bed as any movement can affect your results. If you get uncomfortable, let the radiographer know.
• Some people find it helpful to close their eyes while they are in the tunnel. 
• Some tattoos contain metal, especially those with red dye in them. These can cause a warm, or sometimes burning feeling during the scan. This is only in the area of skin where the tattoo is. If this happens, let the radiographer know straight away.

Most people are ready to go straight home after their test. If you have had a sedative:

• You will need someone to collect you from the hospital. 
• You should have someone with you for 12 hours.
• You should not drive for 24 hours afterwards.