Your MRI Appointment
Preparation
There are no special preparations for your MRI. You may eat and drink normally* and should continue to take any prescribed medications. You will be advised at the time of booking to not wear perfume, scented lotion or hair products beforehand. You should arrive wearing comfortable clothing free of metal closures, snaps or zippers.
*If you are having an MRI of the abdomen with a contrast medium, you will be asked to not eat for four hours prior to the scan.
Before The Scan
When you arrive for your appointment, you will check in with reception and be given a private change room, where you may lock your valuables during your scan. You will be asked to change into the gown that has been provided if your own clothing has any metallic elements. You will also be instructed to remove all metallic objects, including belts, coins, glasses, hearing aids, jewelry, keys, watches, etc.
During The Scan
Our technologist will position you on the cushioned MRI table. You will be required to lie as still as possible since motion can negatively affect the quality of images. You will also be provided with soft earplugs or headphones to listen to music to block much of the knocking noise that will be created during scan sequences. The noise is the result of the moving magnets.
A contrast (gadolinium) injection may be required during your MRI to further enhance tissue details. You will be notified at the time of booking if this is the case. The technologist will place the needle, connected to an intravenous line, in your arm or hand vein.
The technologist will then step behind the control area and maintain constant contact with you, both visually and through an intercom. The exam will last anywhere between 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the type of scan.
After The Scan
After the scan, you will be free to leave as soon as your exam is complete. One of our radiologists will review the pictures that were taken by the scanner and a detailed report of all findings will be sent to your referring doctor within one business day.
How To Book An Appointment
We require a referral from your Family Physician or Specialist for a diagnostic MRI scan. Your physician can fax a referral directly to us and we will contact you within 48 hours to book your scan.
