What is MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)?
If your doctor has referred you for an MRI scan, it means they need a detailed image of soft tissue within your body to help diagnose your condition. You may need an MRI if you have unexplained pain, swelling, or discomfort in a particular area, or if other imaging tests have not provided enough information.
An MRI scan is a painless procedure which uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed, quality images. It does not involve exposure to ionising radiation used in X-ray, CT, and Nuclear Medicine.
During the scan, you will lie on a table that slides into a large tube-like machine. The scan is non-invasive but can produce loud noises, so your team will provide you with headphones to listen to music or a radio station.
MRI scans at Blackrock Health
At Blackrock Health, we understand that waiting for diagnostic results can be stressful. That is why we offer fast access to our modern facilities in Blackrock, Galway, Hermitage and Limerick.
Across our three hospitals and our diagnostic clinic, we are committed to ongoing investment in imaging. You will find the latest 1.5T and 3T MRI scanners in our hospitals. By offering the most advanced imaging and diagnostic technology, we provide accurate and timely diagnoses. Our teams of experts have the capacity and expertise to perform, analyse, and report on a wide range of tests. This ensures that you receive the highest possible standards of care and support. Whether you need routine tests or more urgent imaging, we give you the reassurance of a result with the least possible delay.
MRI at Blackrock Clinic:
Blackrock Clinic has increased the number of MRI scanners in its hi-tech radiology department, adding extra capacity to its exceptional diagnostic imaging services. Patients can expect speedy appointments, with clinic schedules to suit busy lives. The clinic offers weekend and evening appointments.
This expansion reflects Blackrock Health’s commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare with convenience and efficiency at the forefront.
Accessing Blackrock Health MRI services
You can access Blackrock Health MRI services quickly and easily with a referral letter from your GP and expect world-class clinical care and comfort. We provide you with the best possible outcome to restore your quality of life.
Why I might be referred
There are many reasons why you might be referred for an MRI, depending on your symptoms, medical history, and the suspected condition. Some common referral conditions include:
Neurological symptoms: If you are experiencing persistent headaches, dizziness, seizures, or weakness in your limbs, you may be referred for an MRI to investigate possible neurological conditions, like brain tumours or stroke.
Musculoskeletal injury: If you have persistent joint pain or limited mobility, an MRI can diagnose conditions such as torn ligaments, cartilage damage or fractures.
Abdominal or pelvic symptoms: Symptoms such as unexplained abdominal pain, bloating or bowel changes may warrant an MRI to investigate potential causes such as tumours or inflammatory conditions.
Cardiovascular concerns: If you have symptoms of heart disease, like chest pain or shortness of breath, your doctor may order an MRI to assess cardiac function and evaluate for heart defects or damage.
Cancer diagnosis: MRI scans are valuable for detecting and staging cancer, as well as tumour growth and response to treatment.
Spinal issues: Symptoms such as back pain, weakness or numbness may indicate spinal cord or nerve compression. An MRI of the spine can help identify herniated discs, tumours, or any other spinal abnormalities.
Our MRI team
At Blackrock Health, people you might meet in the MRI department are:
Consultant Radiologists
Radiographers
Radiology nurses
Radiology administrators
Who we treat
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a type of scan that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body.
An MRI scanner is a large tube that contains powerful magnets. You lie inside the tube during the scan.
An MRI scan can be used to examine almost any part of the body, including the:
brain and spinal cord.
bones and joints.
heart and blood vessels.
internal organs, such as the liver, womb, or prostate gland.
The results of an MRI scan can be used to help diagnose conditions, plan treatments, and assess how effective previous treatment has been.
Blackrock Health uses the referral criteria, ‘iRefer Guidelines, Making the Best Use of Clinical Radiology.’ These guidelines are considered when a referral is received for a diagnostic radiology/nuclear medicine examination.
Our radiology team use MRIs for a wide range of conditions, including;
The decision to undergo an MRI is down to a patient’s symptoms, medical history, and the clinical judgement of their healthcare provider.
What happens during an MRI scan?
Before your scan, you will be asked to remove your clothing and change into a hospital gown. During the scan, you lie on a flat bed that is moved into the scanner. Depending on the part of your body that the team is scanning, you will be moved into the scanner either headfirst or feet first. The MRI scanner is operated by a radiographer, who is trained in carrying out imaging investigations.
The scanner is controlled via a computer, which is in a separate room to keep it away from the magnetic field generated by the scanner. You will be able to talk to the radiographer through an intercom and they will be able to see you on a television monitor throughout the scan. At certain times during the scan, the scanner will make loud tapping noises. This is the electric current in the scanner coils switching on and off. You will be given headphones or earplugs to wear. It is particularly important to keep as still as possible during your MRI scan.
The scan lasts 15-90 minutes, depending on the size of the area being scanned and how many images are being taken.
How does an MRI scan work?
Most of the human body is made up of water molecules, which consist of hydrogen and oxygen atoms. At the centre of each hydrogen atom is an even smaller particle called a proton. Protons are like tiny magnets and are extremely sensitive to magnetic fields. When you lie under the powerful scanner magnets, the protons in your body line up in the same direction, in the same way that a magnet can pull the needle of a compass. Short bursts of radio waves are then sent to certain areas of the body, knocking the protons out of alignment. When the radio waves are turned off, the protons realign. This sends out radio signals, which are picked up by the receivers.
These signals provide information about the exact location of the protons in the body. They also help to distinguish between the diverse types of tissue in the body, because the protons in several types of tissue realign at different speeds and produce distinct signals. In the same way that millions of pixels on a computer screen can create complex pictures, the signals from the millions of protons in the body are combined to create a detailed image of the inside of the body.
Safety of an MRI
An MRI scan is a painless and safe procedure. You may find it uncomfortable if you have claustrophobia, but most people are able to manage it with support from the radiographer. Wide-bore MRI scanners feature at Blackrock Health hospitals. Going into the scanner feet first may be easier, although this is not always possible.
Extensive research has been carried out into whether the magnetic fields and radio waves used during MRI scans could pose a risk to the human body. No evidence has been found to suggest there is a risk, which means MRI scans are one of the safest medical procedures available.
Metal implants and fragments
MRI scans may not be recommended in certain situations. For example, if you have a metal implant fitted, such as a pacemaker or an artificial joint, you may not be able to have an MRI scan. But that is not always the case. The medical staff receiving the scan referral will check the specifications of your prosthesis and identify any risks, deciding if further measures need to be taken to ensure the scan is safe. For example, it may be possible to make a pacemaker or defibrillator MRI-safe or to monitor your heart rhythm during the procedure.
You may need to have an x-ray if you are unsure about any metal fragments in your body.
Examples of metal implants include:
Pacemaker – a small electrical device used to control an irregular heartbeat.
Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) – a similar device to a pacemaker that uses electrical shocks to regulate heartbeats.
Metal plates, wires, screws, or rods – used during surgery for bone fractures.
Nerve stimulator – an electrical implant used to treat long term nerve pain.
Cochlear implant – a device like a hearing aid that is surgically implanted inside the ear.
Drug pump implant – used to treat long-term pain by delivering painkilling medication directly to an area of the body, such as the lower back.
Brain aneurysm clips – small metal clips used to seal blood vessels in the brain that would otherwise be at risk of rupturing.
Metallic fragments in or near your eyes or blood vessels.
Prosthetic metal heart valves.
Penile implants – used to treat erectile dysfunction.
Eye implants – such as small metal clips used to hold the retina in place.
An intrauterine device (IUD) – A contraceptive device made of plastic and copper that fits inside the womb.
Artificial joints – such as those used for hip replacements or knee replacements.
Dental fillings and bridges.
Tubal ligation clips – used in female sterilisation.
Surgical clips or staples – used to close wounds after an operation.
Tattoos and MRI scans
Some tattoo ink contains traces of metal, but most tattoos are safe in an MRI scanner. Tell the radiographer immediately if you feel any discomfort or heat in your tattoo during the scan.
Contrast fluid and MRI scans
Sometimes an injection of intravenous contrast dye is required for MRI scans. You will be informed if this is necessary, and the radiographer will explain the procedure on the day of your scan.
Specialist MRI Scans
At certain locations, Blackrock Health also carries out Cardiac MRI scans for our heart patients. You can learn more about this here.
How do I access MRI Scan services?
How do I get this?
You will need a referral letter from your GP or consultant before you make an appointment.
My health insurance and costs for MRI Scan services
Is this insured?
Not all services are covered by health insurance. To find out if you are covered, please check your health insurance before your visit. You can do this on our health insurance Cover Check page, or by contacting your health insurer.
How do I pay?
If you do not have health insurance, or your health plan does not cover the full cost, you will need to pay the balance due before your treatment or procedure. You may be able to claim back some fees on your insurance. To pay an excess not covered by your insurance or any other inpatient fees, please visit our payment page. If you have any queries about paying for your care, please contact the finance team in your hospital.