MRI Scan Preparation: What to Expect Before, During and After Your MRI
Before your appointment
Safety checks: You’ll complete a quick safety questionnaire so our team can confirm that an MRI scan is suitable for you.
Booking confirmation: Once we receive your referral and book your appointment, we’ll send you a confirmation with everything you need to know.
Preparing for your scan: For certain scans, you may be asked to avoid food or drink (except water) for up to six hours beforehand. Wear comfortable clothing without metal where possible (including zips, buttons, underwires and metallic fibres). You may be asked to change into a gown depending on the area being scanned.
Jewellery & valuables: Please remove jewellery, watches, hearing aids, hairpins and any other metal items before your scan. If you are unsure whether something is MRI-safe, please ask our team before your appointment.
If you feel nervous or claustrophobic, we offer plenty of support — you can read our tips for anxious patients in advance.
When you arrive
Check in: Arrive at your scheduled time and our team will welcome you.
Allow around 20 minutes before your scan so we can complete your MRI safety checks and answer any questions before you begin.
Getting ready: Your Radiographer will show you to a private changing area. Your belongings can be stored securely in a private lockable changing room.
During your MRI scan
The scan itself: You’ll be guided into the MRI room and positioned comfortably on the scanner table.
Keeping still: It’s important to stay as still as possible during the scan so we can produce clear, high-quality images. Your Radiographer will let you know when you need to remain still.
The scanner is noisy: MRI scanners make loud tapping and knocking sounds while images are being taken. This is completely normal, and we’ll provide ear protection (and music where available) to help make your experience more comfortable.
Communication & reassurance: You’ll have a call bell in your hand at all times. Squeeze it if you need to speak to the Radiographer — they’ll be in regular contact and can see you clearly from the control room. We’ll explain each stage of your scan, let you know approximately how long it will take, and check in with you throughout the examination.
After your appointment
Finishing up: Once your scan is complete, you can collect your belongings and head out — no recovery time needed.
Your images & report: Your images will be available in your secure Patient Portal shortly after your appointment, where they can also be accessed by your referring clinician.. Your Consultant Radiologist will prepare your report, which we aim to send to your referring clinician within one working day.
Next steps
Your referring clinician will discuss your results with you and explain any recommended next steps or treatment. If you used Oryon’s Fast Track Referral Service, we’ll guide you through arranging your follow-up appointment if required.
You’re in safe hands
Our experienced MRI Radiographers will guide you through every step of your visit. If you have any questions before your appointment, or if you’re feeling anxious about your scan, please contact our team, we’re here to help.
FAQs by patients
Most MRI scans take between 20 and 60 minutes, although some specialised examinations may take longer.
Most MRI scans do not require fasting, although some examinations do. We’ll tell you in your appointment confirmation if any preparation is needed.
Comfortable clothing without metal is recommended. If necessary, we’ll provide a gown.
No. MRI scans are painless, although you’ll need to lie still and the scanner can be noisy.
Your images are available shortly after your scan, and we aim to send your report to your referring clinician within one working day.