Magnetic Resonance provides for the exquisite and detailed examination of the brain, skull base and intracranial contents using magnetism and radio waves – rather than X-rays.

It is more sensitive than CT scanning for abnormalities of the brain. It is the optimum investigation for almost all clinical indications.

No specific preparation is required. 

Patients with pacemakers, aneurysm clips or ferromagnetic metallic objects must advise the MRI staff when making their booking. Stainless steel / titanium orthopaedic prostheses are, however, not a contra-indication. 

As you are placed in a tubular gantry, you may experience some claustrophobia. It is very important that you remain still and are comfortable in the scanner – and therefore intravenous sedation is sometimes required.

Small children may require conscious sedation administered by an anaesthetist. This is specifically booked, and your child will be admitted to a hospital ward. Our MRI staff will ensure the full procedure and details are explained to you when making the booking.

You will be required to lie on the MRI bed with your head placed in a brace-like support. The table will then move into a wide-bore tubular gantry, which is open at both ends. 

During the examination you will be in constant voice contact with the radiographer. The radiographer may ask you to hold your breath for certain sequences. 

If sedation is used, your pulse and oxygen saturation levels will be monitored with a pulse oximeter. This is a small clip attached to your finger. During the examination, a relatively loud knocking noise may be heard, but this is normal. You may experience vibrations during part of the studies. The examination is entirely painless and usually lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.

There are no post-procedure side effects and you may continue normal activity. However, if sedation was used you will be instructed not to drive after the examination.