14/10/2026
Three important things you need to know about MRI SCAN. N.B ###- means important point
See some translation in Igbo at the first comment
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging procedure that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs, tissues, bones, joints and other structures inside the body.
An MRI scan is generally safe and painless, but patients need proper preparation before undergoing the procedure.
1.BEFORE THE PROCEDURE
Before the procedure, the radiographer or MRI technologist will ask the patient some questions
A pacemaker or implanted defibrillator.
Metal implants, artificial joints or surgical clips.
A history of metal fragments entering the eyes or body.
Kidney disease, especially if contrast injection is planned.
A history of allergic reactions to MRI contrast agents.
Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy.
###-Claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces)
2. DURING THE PROCEDURE
You will be asked to lie on the scanner table then it will slowly moves into the MRI scanner.
The scanner is usually a large, tunnel-shaped machine as you can see in the photo.
### Remaining still
The patient must remain as still as possible during the scan.
Movement can affect image quality and may require some images to be repeated.
For certain examinations, patients may be asked to hold their breath briefly.
###- Hearing loud sounds
During scanning, the MRI machine produces repetitive sounds such as:
Knocking
Tapping
Buzzing
Thumping
These sounds are normal.
Patients are provided with earplugs or headphones to protect their hearing.
### Communication with the radiographer
Although the radiographer operates the machine from another room, the patient is monitored throughout the procedure.
The patient can usually communicate through an intercom and may be given an emergency call button.
X- Contrast administration (when required)
Some MRI examinations require an intravenous injection of a contrast agent, commonly gadolinium-based contrast.
Contrast helps improve the visibility of certain tissues, blood vessels and abnormalities.
###- Not every MRI scan requires contrast.
Before contrast administration, the healthcare team assesses relevant medical history, including kidney function when indicated.
3. ###- HOW LONG DOES AN MRI SCAN TAKE?
The duration depends on the body part being examined and the type of MRI requested.
Type of MRI
Approximately
30–90 minutes
These times are estimates. Complex examinations may take longer.
I hope you learned.
