What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging technique which produces detailed images of the body’s internal structure; MRI scans can also be used to map the changes in neural activity in brain (functional MRI). A MRI scan uses magnetism to build up a picture of the inside of the body and is routinely used for a variety of clinical/diagnostic purposes. Research suggests that more complex MRI protocols (methods) can also be used to provide more complex information about tumours, brain disease and disorders, the way in which the brain functions, as well as information about the efficacy of drugs and other types of treatment.
The scan does not involve X-rays and is very safe. Ordinarily you will not need to remove your clothing, but anything metallic will need to be left outside of the scanner; on some occassions you will be asked to remove your outer clothes and wear a gown depending on the area being scanned, but this will be explained to you in the information sheet of any study you may be participating in. During the scan you will be asked to lie still on a table, you will hear the noise of the scan which is normal – it can be quite loud but you will be given ear protection and you may be able to listen to the radio during the scan.
During the scan, you may be given an injection of dye to allow us to see the extra information from your scan more easily. This is given into a vein while we are taking your images and is very safe. A very few people get a slight taste in there mouth as the injection is being given. If you have a risk of renal impairment (kidney disease) the chances of adverse reaction are significantly increased and it is not appropriate for you to volunteer for the scan. If you have any questions at all you should feel free to contact the project team for the study you are participating in at any time; their details will be on the information sheet.
MRI does not use X-rays – like CT– or radioactive isotopes – like PET – to produce images and is considered an extremely safe imaging technique.
