MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

An MRI scanner produces cross sectional soft tissue images of any area of your body. It uses a very large magnet and radiofrequency waves to produce the images. It is very noisy while the scans are being taken and all patients are given some form of hearing protection.

Preparation

Eat and drink as normal.
Take all medications as normal.
Try to wear clothing that does not contain any metal.
All patients are asked to complete a Safety Checklist which to ensure that they do not have any metallic object inside them.
Patients may be required to change into a gown to allow imaging free from disturbance or artifacts caused by the fabric, zippers or buttons in your clothing.

You will be asked to remove:

jewellery or watches
hairpins or hair clips
keys, coins, wallets or credit cards
eyeglasses
hearing aids
removable dental work
belts and buckles

The Procedure
Once the patient is positioned on the MR table, a special apparatus called a surface coil is placed around the area of interest, for example the knee, and then positioned inside the MRI gantry.

The technologist leaves the MRI patient room. During the individual MRI sequences that are run the patient will hear a loud knocking sound from within the MRI system. This is normal. All patients will be given some hearing protection.

Each scan takes between 3-10 minutes and it is very important that the patient remains still for this time. The technologist will talk to the patient via the intercom system to let them know how long each scan will take and the patients are able to communicate with the technologist. The whole examination will take approximately one hour. Allow more time for your entire visit.

Please do not ask the MRT for a result. They are unable to give their opinion.

Hours of Operation
MRI provides a 24 hour service for emergency procedures. Normal hours of operation are 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday except public holidays.

Location
The MRI unit is situated in the Radiology Department, on Level D of the Clinical Services Block at Wellington Hospital until November 3. From November 3, it will be located in Level 2 of the new Wellington Regional Hospital.