It is a natural human instinct to be a little cautious of new and unfamiliar experiences. An MRI scan is, to many people, completely uncharted territory, which does bring with it some natural anxiety. The vast majority of patients who visit Oryon Imaging are able to go through with their scan with no problems; however, a small number of visitors express concern about their MRI scan due to claustrophobia.

The NHS estimates that claustrophobia will affect between 10% and 30% of the UK population. However, our figures show that in 2022, only 0.41% of our patients were unable to go through with their scan due to claustrophobia. We must be doing something right!

“You are always able to exit the scanner in a matter of seconds”

Read on to find out how we make sure our patients leave their appointment stress-free and happy.

Where’s your head at

An MRI scanner is a short tube that is open at both ends. During your scan, you will lie on the MRI couch, which will slide you into the scanner.

If you are having a knee or foot scan, and are over a certain height, your head may not even go near the scanner!

However, if you are shorter than a certain height, or your scan is higher up on your body, it is likely that your head will be at least partially under the scanner. Some people might find this thought daunting or unpleasant.

However, there are a number of ways that your concerns can be alleviated.

If you are having an MRI scan and might be claustrophobic, remember the following details:

1. The MRI scanner is open at both ends and is located in a spacious room

Many of our patients mention how much this helps reduce the feeling of being enclosed.

2. The radiographer is always in contact

The radiographer provides regular updates on how much time is left in each scan, and regularly checks in to see if everything is alright. All our radiographers have carried out thousands of scans, so they know exactly how to deal with patients with worries or fears.

3. Call bell

You will be given a call bell to hold for the duration of the scan. If, at any point, you need to stop the scan, simply squeeze the handheld call bell and the radiographers will immediately check in to see what the problem is. You can be withdrawn from the scanner in seconds if need be.

4. Sliding in and out of the scanner

Many patients have a fear of enclosed spaces, and of being trapped. If you have this fear, we are very happy to slide you in and out of the scanner a few times to show you that you are always able to exit the scanner in a matter of seconds.

5. Sedatives

You may wish to take a mild sedative before the scan. This does not put you to sleep, but rather relaxes you enough to control your nerves and put you at ease for the scan. If this is a route you wish to take, contact your referrer/GP to request a prescription for sedatives.

6. Accompaniment

Many people feel far more comfortable when a friend or relative accompanies them in the scanning room. The friend or relative will have to fill out a form to accompany you in the MRI room.

7. Headphones

Headphones or earplugs are always provided due to the noise of the machine. If you wish, you can listen to music of your choice through the headphones during some scans. You can also request an eye mask if you think it will help.

8. Mirror

In many cases, a mirror can be provided so that you can see out of the scanner, which reduces the feeling of being enclosed.

9. Pre-scan visit

If you wish to see the MRI scanner before your appointment, a pre-scan visit can be arranged, where you can ask questions and take a quick tour of the machine. Patients often find that this helps with any nerves on the day of the appointment.

If you have any questions, please call or email our friendly Bookings Team.