What is an MRI?
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging which is a special scan that uses magnets to take pictures of the inside parts of your body.
On the day…
You may need to get ready for your MRI before you come to see us. Ask your parent or carer to tell you what you need to do.
After you arrive for your visit you will be asked to change from your clothes into one of our gowns. You will then be taken into the MRI room.
Someone will help you on to the table that you need to lie on. All you need to do is rest and lie as still as possible. The doctor’s helper will be in the room next door to you. You will be able to hear and talk to him or her if you wish.
As you lie still on the table you will hear a loud knocking and humming sound. The noise is not scary, however you can listen to music on headphones if you wish. You can bring in your favourite music for us to play for you.
The machine will take pictures of an area of your body.
Occasionally, you may need an injection to show the doctor certain parts of the inside of your body.
The test will take between 15 and 45 minutes depending on the part of the body that is being examined.
Once your pictures have been taken you will be able to change back into your normal clothes.
A note to parents and carers
We suggest that you read this brochure with your child before coming to see us. Most children accept the examination more readily if they know what to expect on the day.
We find that many children feel more at ease if they are able to bring their favourite toy or blanket with them for comfort. Most children enjoy a treat after the procedure, so perhaps you would like to bring a reward with you.
Please follow the preparation information below. Please bring with you any other CT scans, x-rays, ultrasounds or MRIs that you may have.
If you or your child has any concerns regarding the procedure, please discuss them with the radiographer (medical imaging technologist) or radiologist (doctor).
Please tell the child’s doctor, the booking receptionist, as well as the technologist when you arrive if your child has a pacemaker, aneurysm clips or any surgically inserted metallic device.
If your child suffers from claustrophobia he/she may need sedation for the test. Please inform the receptionist of this when you book the appointment.
Patient preparation
No preparation is required unless fasting for anaesthetic.
This examination is contraindicated in patients with cardiac pacemakers and intracranial aneurysm clips. Claustrophobic patients and children under 10 may
require general anaesthesia or heavy sedation.
Metal implants (including dental braces) in the anatomic area of interest may degrade images.