MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging(MRI) is a safe, painless and non-invasive way of taking pictures of soft tissues of the body. These images will provide your doctor or specialist with very clear and detailed pictures of whatever part of your body they want greater detail on — whether head, abdomen or joint. 

 MRI allows your doctor or specialist to diagnose medical problems inside your body without radiation or surgery. Using a large magnet, imaging coils and a computer we can produce accurate images of any part of your body. MRI has no known side effects or risks and is even safe for children. MRI is not a suitable diagnostic technique for anyone with:       

• A pacemaker         
• Metallic objects inside their body (dental fillings and orthopaedic hardware are fine)        
• Inner ear implants       
• Some aneurysm clips

Visiting or Accompanying Patients 

If you are anxious or nervous about your upcoming MRI a family member or friend may be able to accompany you into the scanning room.  They will need to complete an MRI Screening form and must be safe to go into the room with you.

What you should know

No special arrangements are needed if you normally would drive yourself to and from the MRI Centre. You may eat or drink as you normally would on the day of your scan. Continue to use any prescriptions medicines.  

The only exception is that if your MRI has been reqested for any Abdominal or Pelvic scan, you are required to fast for 6 hours prior to your appointment, avoiding food or water.

FAQs

What is the thumping or bumping noise I hear inside the chamber?

These are normal noises that are not harmful in any way and let you know the machine is working. 

Will it hurt? Will I feel uncomfortable?

An MRI scan is completely painless. The only difficult aspect is the necessity to lie as still as possible for the duration of the scan. Depending on the part of the body being examined, we might have to inject a “contrast” agent to give the radiologist a clearer image of the tissue. There are few or no side effects of this agent, and the injection is just like any other you might have had. 

What happens if I am claustrophobic, or get anxious during the MRI scan?

If at any time you are uncomfortable, or feel yourself getting upset, you can talk to the technologist through the two-way intercom. A soothing tape, a fan for air movement and the presence of a friend or family member should also help to make the test more comfortable. If you are clinically claustrophobic, tell your referring doctor or specialist. He or she can even prodvide you with a sedative to bring along if you need one. If your physician has prescribed a sedative, please ensure that you have someone who can drive you home. 

What happens if I don’t fit inside the MRI chamber?

The table can accommodate patients up to 350 pounds, and even the tallest people can be comfortably scanned. 

Contact us

Markham Site:  (905) 472-7020