MRI Department

• Brain and Spine MRI
• Joint and Musculoskeletal MRI (shoulder, knee, hip, etc.)
• Abdominal and Pelvic MRI
• Whole-body MRI for systemic evaluations and cancer screening

• Cardiac MRI & Cardiac Perfusion MRI – Detailed imaging of the heart to assess structure, function, and blood flow.
• Neurological MRI – Used for diagnosing brain and nerve conditions, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, and tumors.
• Prostate MRI – A high-precision scan for assessing prostate conditions.
• Liver and Biliary MRI (MRCP) – Provides detailed imaging of the liver and bile ducts.

For certain scans, a gadolinium-based contrast agent may be required to enhance image clarity. If contrast is necessary, a radiographer will insert a small cannula into a vein before the scan. The contrast agent is typically administered toward the end of the MRI examination while you are in the scanner.

• Patients are typically required to change into a gown to ensure safety and avoid interference with the scan.
• All metallic items must be removed before entering the scan room. This includes jewelry, piercings, hair accessories, and any metallic components in clothing.
• Some athletic clothing, including leggings and sports bras, may contain metal fibers and must be removed.
• Cotton-based clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or metallic threads may be worn during some scans.
• Lockers are available to store personal belongings in a secure area. However, we recommend leaving valuables at home whenever possible.

• Pacemakers and Internal Defibrillators: Unfortunately, we cannot perform MRI scans on patients with these devices.
• Other Implants: If you have any medical implants, including those labeled "MRI safe," please contact the MRI department before your appointment to confirm compatibility and avoid delays.

• Some cardiac, abdominal and pelvic MRI scans require fasting or medication adjustments.
• You will receive specific instructions before your scan—please follow them carefully.

• Sedation: We do not offer sedation for MRI scans. However, if you are anxious, your referring doctor may prescribe a mild sedative for you to take before your appointment. 
• Our team is experienced in assisting patients with anxiety, and our wide-bore scanners help reduce discomfort.

• The radiographer will review your medical history and conduct a detailed safety screening to ensure MRI is safe for you.
• You will have the opportunity to ask any questions before your scan begins.
• If IV contrast is needed, a small cannula will be inserted into a vein before the scan.

• You will lie on a motorised table that moves into the MRI scanner.
• The machine produces loud tapping or knocking sounds—ear protection is provided.
• Remaining still is essential for obtaining high-quality images.
• The radiographer will communicate with you throughout the scan via an intercom system.
• Some examinations will require you to hold your breath at certain times. These instructions will be explained before the scan.
• Most MRI scans last between 15 and 20 minutes, with some specialised exams taking up to one hour.

• You can resume normal activities immediately unless otherwise instructed.
• If contrast was used, we recommend drinking plenty of water to help flush it from your system.

• Analysis: A consultant radiologist will carefully review your MRI images.
• Timeframe: Results are typically available within three to five business days.
• Delivery: Your report will be sent directly to your referring doctor, who will discuss the results with you.

Yes, MRI is a safe procedure that does not use ionising radiation. However, certain implants or metal objects in the body may pose risks. It's essential to inform us of any such items prior to the scan.

Some MRI scans require a contrast agent to enhance image quality. If needed, the radiographer will discuss this with you on the day of the scan

In some cases, a gadolinium-based contrast agent is used to improve image quality. This contrast is designed to pass safely through the body. However, as with any medication, there are rare cases where it may not be suitable. If contrast is required, the radiographer will review your medical history and ask screening questions before administration.

If you are breastfeeding and require an MRI with contrast, there is no medical need to discard your breast milk. However, since a very small amount of contrast may pass into the milk, some parents choose to express and discard breast milk for 24 hours as a precaution.

MRI does not use radiation, making it a generally safe imaging option during pregnancy. However, as a precaution, non-urgent MRI scans are avoided during the first trimester. If you are pregnant or suspect you may be, please inform the radiology department before your scan.

MRI scans are completely painless. Some patients experience a warm sensation during the scan—this is normal. If you feel any discomfort, press the call bell to notify the radiographer.

Yes! We offer the option to listen to music to help create a more relaxing environment. The only exception to this is for examinations which require breathing instructions. In this case the music cannot be played.

Our team is trained to support anxious patients. You will have a call bell to alert the radiographer at any time.