Guide to MRI

It makes images of your body using radio waves, magnets and a computer.

It is more detailed than an X-ray or CT, as it can see everything, not just bones.

It doesn’t touch you or hurt you. The only movement is the bed, which moves up and down, in and out.

It uses pieces of equipment called coils, which tells the scanner which area to scan.

It makes lots of noise, which is very repetitive, so ear protection is essential.

It can take from a few minutes to an hour or so, depending on which body part is being scanned. It is
important you keep still, to ensure clear pictures.

It allows a parent or carer to stay with you throughout your scan.