An MRI is a non-invasive procedure that is not painful and involves no ionizing radiation (no x-rays). It sometimes requires an intravenous contrast to be used, which is exceptionally safe.

Pre-Screening considerations

• Patients with cardiac pacemakers cannot have an MRI.
• Patients with cochlear implants cannot have an MRI.
• Patients with certain aneurysm clips or neurostimulators might not be able to have an MRI. Further investigations will be required before a patient with these medical implants can have their MRI.
• Patients who have ever been a grinder, metalworker or welder, or have had a metallic foreign body in their eye will need an x-ray of the eyes prior to having an MRI.
• Although there are no known hazards related to pregnant women who have had an MRI scan, Ottawa Valley MRI will not perform an MRI exams if a patient is pregnant.
• Patients with body piercing might be asked to remove those prior to the MRI
• Patients with dental implants are safe to have an MRI.
• For MRI of the abdomen, patients have to be able to hold their breath for up to 30 seconds.

Claustrophobia

While the MRI is a tunnel by design most people do not experience claustrophobia during their MRI scans. The interior of our MRI machine and the MRI room is well lit and ventilated. An intercom system allows you to have verbal contact with the MRI technologist at all times. We also provide the patient with soft earplugs or listen to music during most MRI scans (please feel free to bring your own CD).

Ottawa Valley MRI Centre does not provide sedatives. If you require anxiety medication you should speak to your doctor about prescribing you a sedative.

If you are concerned about claustrophobia, please mention this to our staff at the time of booking and we will be happy to discuss additional precautionary measures with you. Please refer to the Physician Information section for further advise about claustrophobia.