What to Know Before Your MRI Scan

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a painless diagnostic tool that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create highly detailed images of the inside of your body. Preparing for an MRI is generally quite simple, though it can vary slightly depending on the area being scanned and whether contrast dye will be used. Simply removing your metal accessories and following your doctor's instructions is usually enough to ensure clear, high-quality images.

At a Glance

• MRI scans do not use radiation; they work using a magnetic field and radio waves.
• The procedure typically takes between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on the area being examined.
• You must remove all metal objects, jewellery, and electronic devices before entering the room.
• For scans with contrast dye, you may be asked to fast for 4 to 6 hours beforehand.
• Patients with pacemakers or metal implants must be evaluated before the procedure.

What is an MRI and Why is it Needed?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an advanced medical test that creates detailed, three-dimensional cross-sections of your internal structures using a strong magnetic field and radio waves. Unlike X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans, it does not involve any radiation. This makes it an excellent choice for examining soft tissues, the brain, the spinal cord, joints, muscles, and internal organs. Thanks to recent high-tech investments in Türkiye's healthcare sector, modern MRI machines offer superior image quality, shorter scan times, and maximum patient comfort.

It provides doctors with vital information, particularly for diagnosing neurological conditions, sports injuries, spinal issues, and tumours. The machine's magnetic field aligns the water molecules in your body, and radio waves temporarily disrupt this alignment. When the waves are turned off, the molecules emit signals as they return to their normal state. A computer then translates these signals into high-resolution images. This allows your doctor to detect even cellular-level changes and make an accurate diagnosis.

How to Prepare for an MRI Scan

Preparing for an MRI is a highly systematic process from the moment you step into the hospital. Most of the time, you do not need any special physical preparation, but it is absolutely vital to remove all metal items from your person. Because the MRI machine is essentially a giant, incredibly powerful magnet, bringing any metal objects into the room is strictly prohibited. Wearing comfortable clothing on the day of your scan will make things easier. When you arrive, you will usually be given a hospital gown and asked to leave your own clothes in a changing cabin.

Here are the main items you must remove before entering the scanning room:

• Mobile phones, smartwatches, and credit cards with magnetic strips
• Glasses, hairpins, piercings, earrings, and necklaces
• Hearing aids and removable dental prostheses
• Clothing with metal buttons or zips, and underwired bras
• Coins and keys

During the preparation phase, our technicians will ask you to fill out a short medical history form. If you have any previously implanted metal devices, titanium plates, or a pacemaker, you must inform the medical team before the scan.

Eating and Drinking Before an MRI

One of the most common questions patients ask is whether they can eat before an MRI. The answer depends on the area being scanned and whether contrast dye will be used. For a standard knee, shoulder, neck, or brain MRI, you do not need to fast unless your doctor specifically tells you otherwise; you can continue your normal diet. However, if contrast dye is going to be administered intravenously during the procedure, you will need to have an empty stomach.

For scans with contrast, you are generally asked to stop eating solid foods 4 to 6 hours before your appointment. The main reason for this is that, in rare cases, the contrast dye can cause mild nausea. An empty stomach eliminates the risk of inhaling food into your airways if you were to vomit. For abdominal MRI scans examining organs like the gallbladder, liver, or pancreas, the organs need to be in a resting state to ensure clear images. Therefore, a fasting period of 6 to 8 hours is also recommended by doctors for these types of scans. If you take regular blood pressure or heart medication, consult your doctor to see if you can take them with a small sip of water.

Step-by-Step: How is an MRI Done?

The idea of having an MRI can be a little daunting for first-time patients, but the process is entirely painless and straightforward. When you are taken into the scanning room, the technician will ask you to lie down on a motorised, sliding table. Depending on the body part being examined, a special device called a "coil," which collects radio waves, may be placed over your head, knee, or chest. The table will then slowly slide into the cylindrical part of the machine, known as the tunnel.

Once the scan begins, you will hear loud tapping, knocking, or humming noises coming from the machine. These are completely normal mechanical sounds caused by changes in the magnetic field. To help you stay comfortable, you will be given earplugs or headphones to listen to music. The most important rule during the procedure is to remain entirely still; even a tiny movement can blur the images, meaning the scan might need to be repeated. The process usually takes between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on the size and detail of the area being scanned. The technician will watch you constantly through a window in the adjoining room and can talk to you via a two-way intercom system. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, you can squeeze the emergency button placed in your hand to stop the scan immediately.

Overcoming MRI Claustrophobia

For patients with a fear of enclosed spaces, going into an MRI machine can be a challenging experience. Claustrophobia can be triggered by the narrow tunnel and the loud noises inside. However, thanks to advancing technology and the supportive measures hospitals take, it is now much easier to overcome this fear. Modern 3 Tesla MRI machines have a wider tunnel diameter and a shorter tube design compared to older models. This physical spaciousness significantly reduces the feeling of being closed in.

Keeping your eyes closed during the scan can help you relax by preventing you from seeing the enclosed space right from the start. Listening to your favourite music, practising deep and regular breathing exercises, or visualising a peaceful environment can also ease your anxiety. Furthermore, the continuous voice communication with the technician ensures you know you are not alone. If you still experience severe panic despite these calming techniques, you can speak to your doctor about taking a mild sedative before the procedure. For children or adults with severe claustrophobia, the scan can be safely performed under sedation with the help of an anaesthesiologist.

Who Cannot Have an MRI? (Risks and Contraindications)

Because the MRI machine is a very powerful magnet, it can pose serious risks to individuals with certain types of metal or electronic devices in their bodies. The magnetic field can cause these devices to move, heat up, or malfunction, which is why MRI scans are strictly contraindicated in some cases. Patients with pacemakers are the most significant risk group; older pacemakers can be stopped by the magnetic field. Newer "MRI-conditional" pacemakers can only enter the scanner with a cardiologist's approval and special adjustments.

Cochlear implants (inner ear prostheses), certain older metal clips used in brain aneurysm surgeries, and metal fragments lodged in the eye are also absolute reasons not to have an MRI. Titanium plates, screws, or joint replacements used in orthopaedic surgeries are generally MRI-safe and do not prevent a scan, but you must still inform the technician beforehand. As for pregnancy, MRI scans are generally avoided during the first trimester when the baby's organs are developing, unless there is an urgent medical necessity. In the later stages of pregnancy, scans can usually be performed safely without contrast dye, subject to a doctor's decision.

Radiology and MRI at BHT CLINIC

At BHT CLINIC İstanbul Tema Hastanesi, we use the most advanced imaging technologies to ensure your diagnostic process is fast, reliable, and comfortable. Located in our Radiology department, our 3 Tesla MRI scanner provides high-resolution image quality while significantly reducing scan times compared to standard machines. Its wide tunnel diameter and special lighting systems create a spacious environment for patients with claustrophobia. Additionally, the quiet operation feature of our machine is a major advantage for children and noise-sensitive adults.

Our emergency department and radiology unit operate 24/7, allowing for immediate imaging in cases of sudden trauma, stroke, or severe pain. Before the scan, our expert technicians will guide you through every step and manage your preparation meticulously. Our experienced radiologists will then report on the images in detail as quickly as possible, forwarding them to your attending physician to plan your treatment. With our advanced technological infrastructure, we are by your side to clear up any health concerns and reach an accurate diagnosis swiftly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I feel any pain during the MRI scan?

No, an MRI scan is a completely painless procedure. There are no needles or incisions involved; you are simply asked to lie still. If a contrast scan is required, you may feel a slight scratch, like a mosquito bite, when the IV line is inserted.

What is an MRI with contrast, and why is it requested?

An MRI with contrast involves injecting a special dye called gadolinium into your body through a vein. This dye makes blood vessels, tumours, infections, or tissue damage appear much clearer and brighter on the images, making it easier for your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.

Do I have to take my clothes off for an MRI?

You will be asked to remove your own clothes in case they contain metal buttons, zips, underwiring, or hidden metallic threads. During the scan, you will wear a special, 100% cotton, metal-free hospital gown provided by us.

How long does it take to get MRI results?

Once the scan is complete, the images are transferred digitally and reviewed by our specialist radiologists. While the reporting time is generally between 24 and 48 hours, in urgent cases, results are communicated to the relevant doctor within minutes.

Does an MRI machine emit radiation?

No, unlike X-ray or CT machines, MRI scanners do not use X-rays (radiation). Because they use powerful magnets and radio waves to capture images, there is no risk of radiation damaging your cells.

To clear up any health concerns and safely undergo imaging with our advanced MRI technology, you can book an appointment.

This article is for informational purposes only; please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.