The MRI Scan Centre

First of all, the science bit

To begin with, let's give it its full name. MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging and it's a radiology technique which uses magnetism, radio waves, and a computer to produce images of your body which will give a range of useful information to your consultant.

The layman's version

You've probably seen one on TV the odd time, but if you haven't, an MRI scanner is a giant tube surrounded by a circular magnet. The patient is placed on a moveable bed, which is then rolled into the tube.
Images are then produced by the MRI scanner which are quite detailed and can detect tiny changes of structures within the body.

Does it hurt and are there any risks?

Firstly, we can guarantee you that it won't hurt a bit. MRI scanning is totally painless and has the added advantage of avoiding x-ray radiation exposure. There are no known side effects of an MRI scan.

If you're prone to claustrophobia, however, you should mention it to your consultant as well as the radiology staff. A mild sedative may be given prior to the scan to help keep you calm in the confined space of the MRI scanner.

You should note that patients with heart pacemakers, metal implants, or metal chips or clips in or around the eyes cannot be scanned with MRI because of the effect of the magnet.

When are MRI scans used?

In the same way that an X-Ray would be used to detect a possible bone break, an MRI is used as a very accurate method of disease detection throughout the body. Surgery can be deferred or more accurately directed when your consultant has read the results of your MRI scan.

It can be used to examine or detect:

• Trauma to the head or brain
• Brain aneurysms
• Tumours of the brain
• Tumours or inflammation of the spine
• Strokes
• Problems with the vertebrae or discs of the spine
• The structure of the heart and aorta
• Glands and organs within the abdomen
• The structure of the joints, soft tissues, and bones of the body

What to expect at your MRI scan

• Because MRI involves a form of magnetic scanning, you will be asked to remove all metallic objects before your scan.
• You need to lie very still and breathe normally during the procedure. You will be able to communicate with the MRI technologist throughout the test, so if you feel any way claustrophobic, you can be immediately released from the MRI tube.
• You will hear loud, repetitive clicking noises during the scanning - this is nothing to worry about and is completely normal.
• Sometimes, you may be injected with contrast agents which increase the accuracy of the images.
• The scanning time depends on the exact area of the body, but ranges from thirty minutes to an hour and a half.

Getting your results

After the MRI scan is finished, the computer generates visual images of the area of the body that has been scanned and these images are transferred to film. This film is given to a radiologist who is specially trained to interpret the MRI images. A report is sent to the doctor who requested the MRI scan - usually your G.P. or Consultant - who can then discuss the results with you.

How to go about getting a MRI scan

To have an MRI scan, you need to be referred by your consultant or G.P. To claim the cost back, the reason for your scan must be included on the list of Clinical Indicators for MRI Scans.

Hibernian Aviva Health covers more scan centres than any other health insurer and we even have direct settlement arrangements with our approved centres, so you don't have to submit a claim.

For a list of approved scan centres, please visit the health provider search.