1357 Warwick Road, Knowle, Solihull, West Midlands, B93 9LW

FAQs

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MRI Safety Information

Who will I see?

The clinic has a team of people who will help you through your procedure. We will be pleased to answer any questions you may have.

Will I need an injection?

Occasionally we may need to give you and injection, this is called contrast. The contrast enables us to see certain areas in more detail. This will normally be administered into a vein in the arm by the radiographer and more pictures will be taken after the injection. We will always discuss this with you first and there are not usually any side effects from this.
There will be an additional charge for this which will be discussed with you.

Will I need to undress?

If you have any metal on your clothing i.e. zips or metal buttons (including bra hooks) you will need to remove them, if needed we have clinic gowns for your convenience and a changing area.

What about jewellery?

Gold wedding bands are generally MR compatible but base metal items are not MR safe, and must not be taken into the scan room as it could result in injury at the point of contact with the skin.

As part of our MR safety requirements all body piercings, irrespective of where they are situated on the body, must be removedĀ beforeĀ attending an appointment; please note that we reserve the right to postpone the appointment in the event of anyone refusing to comply with this request.

We would also be grateful if other valuables such as watches, necklaces and bracelets are not brought into the clinic. Please note that we do provide lockable areas for small personal items such as mobile phones, car keys and credit or debit cards.

How long will the scan take?

The duration of the scan depends on which areas of the body are being scanned, for a single area, e.g. lower spine, the time is typically 15 to 20 minutes, but for multi-area and contrast scanning it will be longer, the radiographer will be able to advise you of the time you will be in the scanner.

Can I eat and drink?

Yes, you can eat and drink normally both prior to and after the scan unless you have been informed otherwise. There are some scan types which require an empty stomach, if you are having one of these procedures you will be advised prior to the day of your appointment. If you are a diabetic it may be worth bringing a light snack as you may have to wait for your results over your normal meal period and we have no cafeteria facilities.

Can I bring a friend or relative with me?

Yes, you can bring a friend or relative with you; we have a comfortable waiting room. They will not normally be able to accompany you into the scanner for safety reasons, unless there are special circumstances and then they must also complete a safety questionnaire. Children will not be allowed in the scanner with you so you will need to make arrangements for them before you arrive for the scan, it is worth noting we have no facilities for children on site.

I am claustrophobic and not sure if I will be able to go into the scanner?

The MRI scanners at Heath Lodge Clinic are ā€˜wide boreā€™ scanners, which mean they have more room for patients than the older more traditional scanners. We have scanned many claustrophobic patients who have been happy with the experience, (please click here to read some patient testimonials).

If you are at all worried we can let you speak with our Radiologist who will explain the procedure and make some suggestions to make your visit more comfortable. You may want to ask your physician for a prescription for a mild sedative prior to the scheduled examination.

When will I get my results?
You will take a CD containing your pictures away with you and a written report will be sent to your referring clinician within approximately seven working days.
You will need to make an appointment with your clinician to discuss your results. Please note that the patient DOES NOT receive a copy of their clinical report findings. The report is sent directly to the clinician who has referred the patient for them to discuss any findings with them.

Is the scan painful or uncomfortable?

We will do our best to ensure your comfort during the scan, however as you will be lying flat, some people will experience discomfort due to this position. You will feel no pain as a direct result of the scan. You will know when images are being recorded because you will hear tapping or thumping sounds when the coils that generate the radiofrequency pulses are activated.

It is important that you remain still while the images are being recorded, which is typically only a few seconds to a few minutes at a time. For some types of exams, you may be asked to hold your breath. You will be able to relax between imaging sequences, but will be asked to maintain your position as much as possible.

The radiographer will not be in the room during the scan, but will speak to you throughout the procedure. You will be given a buzzer to hold which, should you feel uncomfortable at any time, you can press and the radiographer will stop the scan and come into the scan room to assist.

Do you offer pregnancy or gestation scanning?

No, this is not a service that we offer at Heath Lodge Clinic.

Do you offer MRI scans for children?

Heath Lodge Clinic is registered to scan children over the age of 8. However please note that exclusions do apply. For further information please contact the clinic on contact@heathlodgeclinic.co.uk.

Do you offer a language translation service?

Please enquire with a member of our team if you need access to a translation service.

Is a Hearing Loop available at the clinic?

Yes, we have a portable hearing loop for use within the clinic, which is kept at reception.
Patients are able to use the loop throughout the clinic, apart from inside the MRI Scan rooms.
For further information, please speak to a member of our reception team.