MRI scan

The scan is a painless procedure. But it’s possible to feel claustrophobic at the thought of, or during, an MRI scan. If you do, let the radiographer know. They can use machines with wider spaces, or share techniques to help you minimise your claustrophobia and stay calm during the scan. 

Here’s what will happen during your MRI scan:

1. You’ll remove your clothing and put on a gown.

2. You’ll remove any metal jewellery, including watches, hair accessories, and piercings. 

3. You may be injected with a dye that can enhance the MRI scan.

4. The bed will slide into the MRI machine, which is a large, tube-shaped device with openings at each end.

5. Your scan will begin, and you’ll be asked to lie still to get the clearest possible images.

6. You’ll be given earplugs and headphones, and music to listen to. This can help relax you and reduce the noise from the MRI machine.

7. You’ll be able to talk to your radiographer during the scan if you need to.

8. When the scan is complete, the bed will slide out of the machine, and you’ll be able to get up and get dressed.

You’ll be able to go home once your MRI scan is complete. Depending on your scan, it can take between 15 minutes to 1 hour to complete.

MRI scans are safe procedures. They’re suitable for most adults and children aged 12 and above.

Welbeck is one of the few facilities in the country that can offer you an MRI scan even if you have a pacemaker or an implantable defibrillator. However, given the magnetic field used, MRI scans may not be suitable if you:

• have metal implants, devices, or prostheses fitted

• have kidney problems

• are pregnant

• are breastfeeding

Meeting any of the above criteria doesn’t automatically mean you won’t be able to have an MRI scan. Your consultant will ask you more about your medical history to assess whether the scan is appropriate and the best option for you. 

Most often, you’ll be able to eat, drink, and take any medications as normal before your MRI scan. In some cases, you may be asked to fast or drink more water before your scan. Your consultant will let you know exactly what to do beforehand.

Metal can’t be taken into an MRI machine. This means that in preparation for your appointment, you may need to:

• take out any piercings — if this is likely to be difficult, see a piercer to help you remove them ahead of your appointment

• remove all jewellery — if you have any rings or other jewellery that you can’t remove yourself, seek assistance before your appointment

• you’ll be required to change into a gown for your appointment. Please dress comfortably in easy-to-change clothing

As an MRI scan is a safe procedure, you won’t need to follow any recovery instructions. 

After your scan, your consultant will review the images. You’ll have a follow-up appointment to talk through your results and any further tests or treatment that you may need.

Please contact our Imaging & Diagnostics centre for pricing information.

At Welbeck, our radiologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book an MRI scan, you must be referred by either your GP or a radiologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a radiologist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.