Technique
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive scanning technique performed in a magnetic field and does not involve radiation.
Applications
A detailed series of high resolution images of the region of interest is produced allowing our specialists to identify injury or disease of the joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments.
Patient information
A single part MRI scan usually takes around 20-30 minutes. Depending on the body part being imaged the patient may have to partly or occasionally fully enter the magnet but it will not come into contact with the patient.
The radiographers are in contact with patients at all times. Patients who are anxious or claustrophobic should feel reassured. We have a lot of experience. The scan can be noisy and the patient is given headphones and a choice of music to listen to during the scan.
Patient safety
Owing to the nature of the magnet, there are some contra-indications and MRI may not be suitable for people with the following: pacemaker (although some of these may now be compatible with the MRI scanner), cochlear or other metallic implant, metallic fragments in the eyes from previous injury, any programmable device such as a spinal stimulator device and some cardiac valves or stents. It is safe to have an MRI of a joint replacement. For safety reasons, an MRI safety questionnaire is used prior to all examinations in order to allow the scans to go ahead safely. Please feel free to ask the department if you have any queries.
OMR has access to a number of 1.5T and 3T MRI scanners in Oxfordshire and throughout the UK and are able to deliver a remote image reporting service through teleradiology so patients can have an MRI scan close to where they live and have it reported by our reputed OMR specialists without any delay.