MRI has been in use since 1977 and has the major advantage that it does not use ionising radiation (x rays).

Because the scanner contains a powerful magnet, MRI must NOT be performed on people with certain implants in their bodies.

If patients have a device such as a heart pacemaker (see top image), a cochlear implant (see bottom image), electromechanical devices like drug delivery systems, surgical clips and certain varieties of metal artificial heart valves they should inform the MRI staff about this immediately.

You will be asked to fill out a screening form on arrival at the scan department to certify your personal safety. Please ensure that you answer the questions carefully and accurately. It is absolutely imperative that you do not enter the scan room if you have a heart pacemaker.

If you have ever had metal fragments in your eyes due to a penetrating injury or worked with metal at high speed, you will require an X-ray of your eyes to ensure there are no particles still remaining. Even small fragments of metal can be pulled strongly by an MRI magnet. Note also that time elapsed since any metal related injury makes no difference, metal fragments can remain unchanged in the body for years.

The banging noise the scanner makes can be quite loud (depending upon the kind of scan in progress)and we strongly recommend that you use the earplugs or headphones provided.

Female patients: Please advise us beforehand if you are in the first 3 months of pregnancy.

Recent Surgery? Let us know if you have had surgery within the last year - just to ensure that we can check the safety of any implanted devices, stents etc.

The scanner has a patient weight limit. Please contact us if you weigh over 133kg (21st).