MRI – Magnetic Resonance Imaging
What is an MRI?
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to provide an image of inside the body. It is painless and uses no x-ray radiation.
The pictures that MRI provides us have very high soft tissue resolution, and are particularly good for looking at brain, back and joint problems – although new applications for all parts of the body are constantly being developed.
Download MRI at Wakefield (Newtown) Brochure (PDF)
Download MRI at Boulcott (Lower Hutt) Brochure (PDF)
Is it safe?
For the vast majority of patients, the examination is extremely safe and there are no after effects at all.
However, a small number of people may not be able to go in the MRI scanner, particularly if they have a pacemaker or have had certain types of surgery. These people are identified by the technologists beforehand by way of a questionnaire and an interview.
Is there any preparation?
Carry on with your normal routine.
Fill out the questionnaire that comes with your appointment letter. If you answer yes to any of the questions please contact the MRI booking co-ordinator to discuss it further.
What will happen to me?
After the usual paperwork, one of the MRI technologists will take you through to the MRI suite. They will go over the health questionnaire with you and outline what will happen next. You will need to get changed into an examination gown, with particular emphasis on removing all metal objects such as jewellery, pens, and so on. Note that credit cards are wiped completely blank by the magnet.
You will be positioned on the examination couch, and the body part we are looking at supported and secured – movement during the scan reduces image quality. The scan takes 30 minutes on average, sometimes longer. The machine is noisy so we will give you earplugs, but you will still be able to hear the technologists throughout the scan via an intercom. You will not be able to see the technologists, but they are always able to see you, and will continually monitor you the whole time. You will also have a buzzer to hold so that you are always able to get their attention – the scan can be stopped at any time if necessary.
You may need to have an injection of a special contrast agent called Gadolinium. This optimizes image quality for some areas, including brain, vascular and other scans. This goes in through a very small needle and is very safe.
When the exam is finished, you can get changed and go back to your normal routine. Your doctor will get a report of your scan from one of our radiologists.
Where can I get an MRI?
What does it cost?
Our prices page has a downloadable price list. Costs vary depending on exactly what is involved in the procedure. Please phone our Call Centre (04 978 5500) for more information.