What is an MRI scan?

• MRI means 'Magnetic Resonance Imaging'. It's an imaging technique using a strong magnetic field to produce high-quality pictures of soft tissue inside your body, for example muscles and ligaments, brain tissue, etc.

How does it work ?

• MRI technology uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed pictures of the human body. As the radio waves pass through the body, images are created on a computer screen for radiologists to analyze. These precise images allow radiologists to view soft tissue (muscles, fat, internal organs, blood vessels and tendons) and bones without the use of X-rays or surgery.

Is MRI safe for me?

• MRI is completely safe and has been used for over 20 years in USA & UK. There are NO known serious side effects.
• The MRI imaging technique does not involve exposure to radiation, hence it is totally safe.

However, you MUST Inform us in advance if -

1. You're pregnant or may be pregnant
2. You have a cardiac pacemaker
3. You have an artificial heart valve
4. You have a cochlear implant, neurostimulator, or programmable hydrocephalus shunt.
5. You have any metal implant in your body.
6. You've had an injury to your eyes involving metal or metal fragments.
7. You've had any operations on your head.

What if I am claustrophobic and don't like to be in enclosed spaces?

• The MRI machine at HEALTH PLUS is the first MRI in Delhi with an ultrashort magnet, with a tunnel length of only 145 cms. This ensures that the patient doesn't experience any suffocation or claustrophobia.

Can pediatric patients receive an MRI?

• Yes, children can receive an MRI. Our Radiology Department has specialty radiologists and a conscious sedation program to meet the unique needs of pediatric patients.
• Parents can accompany their children into the scan room and remain with the child during the MRI exam.

Should I take my medications on the day of my MRI?

• Yes, it is important for patients to continue taking all medications prescribed by their physician before their MRI exam. Patients should let their technologist know what medications they have taken prior to their MRI scan.

Who will I meet at the MRI room?

• You'll see a small team comprising of qualified & experienced MRI technologists, nursing & paramedical staff who'll care for you during your examination. One of the MRI technologists will carry out the examination.
• A trained medical attendant / nurse shall be beside you inside the MRI room during the entire duration of your MRI examination and shall take care of all your needs during the investigation.

Before the scan

There are a few simple instructions that you need to follow before the scan:

1. Jewelry, mobile phones, glasses, hearing aides, dentures, hairpins, credit cards, coins, keys and other metal objects will need to be removed since these can not be taken inside the MRI room. Secure clothing lockers are provided for you where you can deposit your belongings.
2. Please feel free to tell us about any special circumstances (for example, if you need wheelchair access, if you're hard of hearing, or if you're claustrophobic)
3. Please remember to bring all your previous medical records in case you have any, including MRI & CT scan reports, laboratory reports, hospital notes.

What happens during my examination?

1. The technologist will have you lie down on a cushioned table. Once you have been comfortably positioned, the table is moved inside the magnet. You will be in a short tunnel which is well-lighted , has a good air flow and completely safe.
2. A mirror over your head and an intercom system keep you in constant contact with the technologist throughout the procedure.
3. During the examination, you may feel a slight vibration and hear some loud rhythmic drumming noises. There are no other physical sensations.
4. You should try to lie as still as possible since any movement will blur the picture. When the scanning is complete, the technologist will return to assist you off the table.

Will I hear any noise?

1. You'll be comfortable but you'll hear some loud mechanical sounds from the scanner which are completely normal for this type of investigation.
2. You shall be offered music of your choice, so as to help you relax during the investigation procedure.

How long will it take?

• Most scans take around 20 to 25 minutes, but can take up to one hour, depending on the area being scanned

After the scan

• You can eat and drink normally after the scan
• You can also drive home afterwards and return to work as necessary

Will I receive an intravenous injection during my MRI?

• Depending on the type of examination, you may receive a contrast agent intravenously (IV) through a vein in the arm or hand. Contrast agents are safe injections used to highlight organs and blood vessels in order to produce a better images for the radiologist.

Are there any side effects?

• If the area we scan needs an injection (known as a 'contrast agent'), there is a very small possibility of an allergic reaction, such as a skin rash or asthma attack. We have expert medical staff on board who are trained to deal with these reactions.

When will I get the results?

• A specialist doctor- the radiologist- will study the hundreds of images of your body in detail shortly after your visit.
• The radiologist will then form a diagnosis and make a comprehensive MRI report.
• Your MRI report will be ready within two days.

The advantages of MRI

• MRI is an advanced imaging technique which takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, several hundred images are obtained. These images assist us in making a diagnosis for your condition, and may even eliminate the need for biopsy or surgery.