Neuroradiology
You have been referred for an MRI scan. MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. This guide will help to explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have.
Where will my scan take place?
Unless you have been notified otherwise, your scan will take place in the Neuroradiology Department at The James Cook University Hospital. A map, showing the department, should also have been included with this leaflet.
What happens if I am Claustrophobic?
If you suffer with claustrophobia, there are several different options available. Call the department on telephone: 01642 854551 prior to your appointment to discuss this further.
Preparing for your MRI scan
It would be appreciated if you could attend for your appointment with clothes that are metal free with no zips.
Eye make-up and magnetic eye lashes should be removed as they may cause interference with the images. Hair extensions with metal fastenings must be removed.
If you have had implants fitted, such as a pacemaker or neurostimulator, please ring the department prior to your appointment. Please bring any cards or information regarding the implant to your appointment so that we can check that they are MRI safe to scan.
All piercing must be removed. It is important that you inform the radiographer if you have any piercings in place, tattoos, or cosmetic surgery.
If there is any possibility you may be pregnant, please contact the MRI department before attending for your appointment.
What happens before to the scan?
Before you have your scan, a radiographer will go through a safety questionnaire to ensure you are safe to go ahead with your scan, checking for any implants such as pacemakers, cochlear implants, neurostimulator etc as some devices or models may not be compatible for MRI or may not meet MRI conditional criteria.
What does the machine look like?
The MRI scanner is large tube, which is well lit. ventilated and open at both ends.
You are never fully enclosed, and the staff will be monitoring and communicating with you throughout the scan.
What happens during the scan?
Throughout the scan you will be asked to lay on the scanner trolley/bed which moves in and out during the scan, all you will need to do is to keep still and remain calm.
You will be given earplugs to protect your ears from the loud knocking noise the scanner makes.
You will also be given a small air-filled ball to hold for the duration of your scan. This is an emergency buzzer should you need to attract the attention of the radiographers for any reason.
How does the scanner work?
MRI is a method of obtaining high quality images of the body without the use of ionising radiation. It is safe, painless, non-invasive and has no side effects. MRI uses magnetic and radio waves and a computer to form images of your body. The consultant radiologist, a doctor specialising in imaging, will then study these images and send a clinical opinion to your referring specilaist.
How long will the scan take?
The length of the scan time will depend on the body part being scanned and the reason your specialist requested the imaging. The scan time can vary from 15 minutes to 1 hour or may even be a little longer.
Will I need an injection?
A contrast injection may be necessary to gather further information regards your condition. This will be decided by the consultant radiologist in the department.
If a contrast injection is needed, you may be asked to remain in the department for up to 10 minutes after your scan is completed to ensure there are no side effect. The symptoms can vary from a minor rash to a very rare but more severe allergic reaction. The staff in the department are trained to deal with any reactions.
In most instances:
Dotarem (contains gadolinium) which is used for MRI – excreted through your kidneys within 48 hours. Please ensure you are hydrated before and after your scan.
What happens after the scan and how do I get my results?
Once your scan is completed you will be able to go home. Your results will be sent to your referring specialist or clinician.
How to find the James Cook University Hospital
The Hospital is on the A172 between Middlesbrough and Marton, TS4 3BW. We are located in the south entrance. The nearest car parks are in V1 or V2. Please refer to map below.
Contact us
For further information please contact us:
Telephone 01642 854551
Email: [email protected]
We would like to hear about your experience
Thinking about your visit to the Neuroradiology department, we would like to hear about your experience by asking you to complete our feedback survey.
Simply scan the QR code using your mobile phone or tablet to complete the survey.
Patient experience
South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust would like your feedback. If you wish to share your experience about your care and treatment or on behalf of a patient, please contact The Patient Experience Department who will advise you on how best to do this.
This service is based at The James Cook University Hospital but also covers the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, our community hospitals and community health services.
To ensure we meet your communication needs please inform the Patient Experience Department of any special requirements, for example; braille or large print.
T: 01642 835964
E: [email protected]