FAQ's 1. HOW IS MRI DIFFERENT FROM X-RAY: MRI shows muscle, tissue, diseased tissue, tumors, bone, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons. X-rays only show bone. 2. How does an MRI scan differ from a CT scan? With an MRI scan it is possible to take pictures from almost every angle, whereas a CT scan only shows pictures horizontally. There is no ionizing radiation (X-rays) involved in producing an MRI scan and the images can be more detailed, too. The difference between normal and abnormal tissue is often clearer on the MRI than on the CT scan. 3. How is an MRI scan performed? The scan is completed as an outpatient procedure, which means that the patient can go home after the test. During the scan it is important to lie completely still. A sedative or anaesthetic is sometimes recommended to children or adults that may have a difficult time being still. It is important to arrange for appropriate transportation home in these cases. 4. Is an MRI scan dangerous? There are no known dangers or side effects connected to an MRI scan. The test is not painful; you cannot feel it. Since radiation is not used, the procedure can be repeated without problems. Scans are not performed on pregnant women during early pregnancy due to a small theoretical risk to the foetus in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. 5. ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS: No side effects are associated with an MRI. 6. HOW LONG WILL THE PROCEDURE TAKE: The procedure time varies from 15 to 45 minutes depending on what body part is being scanned. 7. CAN SOMEONE COME INTO THE ROOM WITH ME: You may take a friend or family member into the scan room. They will also need to remove any metal and be screened for metal implants, just like the patient. 8. WHAT IF I HAVE METAL IMPLANTS (PROSTHESIS): Any metal that can be removed, should be. Depending on what/where the implanted metal is and how long it has been in the body also will be asked. Normally, the wait time is 6 weeks after surgery for an MRI to safely be performed. Remember patients with pacemakers, defibrillators and certain types of aneurysm clips can NEVER be scanned. Our staff will ask you a series of “pre-screening” questions when your appointment is made. 9. WHAT IS AN MRA: MRA is magnetic resonance angiography. This looks at the blood flow in arteries, veins and can detect narrowing or stenosis. It is performed the same way as an MRI and may require a contrast injection. Back To Top