- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), also known as MR (Magnetic Resonance) is a non-invasive technique utilising magnetic fields and radio waves to examine the body. As such, it provides a unique means of visualising the body’s internal structures.
- A MRI may require the administration of intravenous gadolinium contrast.
- A MRI does not use X-rays.
- It produces anatomical images, but also provides some physiological and functional information through the use of a great variety of different imaging sequences, mainly based on changes in hydrogen (water) content in tissue.
- It complements ultrasound, conventional X-rays and radioisotope studies (but no X-rays, sound waves or radioactive materials are utilised during the study).
- MRI has no side-effects.
- Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete all the necessary paperwork.
- You can also download the patient information form here.
- Ladies should not wear mascara when scheduled for studies of the head and neck, as this often contains metal that causes artefacts on the images.
- Should you suffer from nasal congestion, it might be beneficial to use a nasal decongestant prior to your examination.
- If you think you will need sedation, please bring someone who will be able to take you home.
- Be ready to discuss your overall health and to answer routine questions. This includes any symptoms you may have and why you need the procedure.
- If there is any possibility that you might be pregnant.
- If you wear a pacemaker, hearing aid or have an artificial heart valve, cochlear implant, any other implants, orthopaedic prostheses, aneurysm clips, or have shrapnel in the eye or body (this is for the success of the procedure and for your safety).
- If you suffer from claustrophobia.
- The examination will be performed by a trained radiographer and reported on by a radiologist.
- Due to the very strong magnetic field, all necessary precautions are taken against introducing metal into the MRI room. You will therefore be required to wear the gown provided.
- You will lie on your back and, depending on the part of the body being examined, you will be placed in the unit (that is in the shape of a short tunnel) either head or feet first.
- The so-called tunnel is similar to that encountered in a conventional CT scanner and is open at both ends.
- You will be in constant intercom contact with the radiographer who also has direct visualisation of you.
- You will only be aware of a knocking sound during the examination (if you wish, we can supply you with ear plugs to reduce the noise that is produced by radio waves).
- In some instances, the intravenous injection of a contrast agent is also necessary. When joints are imaged, it may be required for the contrast medium to be injected directly into the joint prior to the study.
- At most of our branches, you can expect a wide-bore MRI unit that offers more space than the standard 60 cm bore. These wider tunnels are especially helpful for claustrophobic and larger patients but offer improved patient comfort overall.
- You will be given a panic button should you require immediate attention from the radiographer.
- For best results:
- Cooperation with the radiographer is essential to the success of the procedure.
- You will have to remain as still as possible throughout the examination, as any motion will seriously degrade the image quality. This will prevent the need to repeat any part of the study and will also save time and any possible discomfort.
- You and/or your doctor will receive the images electronically and the report will be sent to your doctor.
- You can return to your normal routine right away, unless you are advised not to.
- If you needed sedation, you will not be allowed to drive for the next 24 hours.
Available at these branches:
To contact our MRI Central Bookings department, email booking@scp.co.za or phone 021 100 6600.
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Enquire here about the cost of a procedure and, if funded by a medical aid, the extent of cover provided.
SCP’s services are offered at medical aid rates.