MRI Scan Guide
Overview
A brain MRI produces highly detailed images of the brain, brainstem, and surrounding structures. It is the preferred imaging method for evaluating neurological symptoms because it provides superior soft tissue contrast compared to CT and does not use ionizing radiation.
Brain MRI is used to investigate a wide range of symptoms including persistent headaches, dizziness, seizures, memory problems, vision changes, and neurological deficits. It is also used to monitor known conditions such as multiple sclerosis, brain tumours, and vascular malformations.
The scan is safe, painless, and requires no recovery time. Patients can resume all normal activities immediately afterward.
The procedure
You lie on a padded table with your head positioned inside a head coil, which captures the MRI signal. The table slides into the scanner bore. The magnetic field aligns hydrogen atoms in your brain tissue, and radio frequency pulses cause these atoms to emit signals that are converted into detailed cross-sectional images. Multiple sequences are typically acquired, each highlighting different tissue properties. The scan takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. You will hear loud tapping sounds throughout. Earplugs or headphones are provided.
Diagnostic value
Preparation
No fasting is required for a standard brain MRI.
Remove all metal objects from your head and body, including hair clips, earrings, piercings, and dental retainers if removable.
Inform the radiographer about any implants, pacemakers, or metal fragments in your body.
If contrast is needed, you may be asked about kidney function or allergies beforehand.
Wear comfortable clothing without metal fastenings.
Some brain MRIs require an intravenous injection of gadolinium contrast to improve visibility of certain structures. Contrast is commonly used when evaluating tumours, infections, or inflammatory conditions. It helps distinguish between active and inactive lesions and can reveal areas where the blood-brain barrier has been disrupted. Your physician will specify whether contrast is needed when ordering the scan.
Beyond standard brain MRI, specialized techniques exist for specific clinical questions. MR angiography (MRA) maps blood vessels to detect aneurysms. Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) can identify acute stroke within minutes. Functional MRI (fMRI) maps brain activity during tasks. These advanced sequences may be included in your scan protocol depending on clinical need.
Understanding your results
Every Mira scan comes with two reports. A medical report from a radiologist for your doctor, and a miraclarity report for you. The miraclarity report explains your brain / head MRI findings in straightforward language with visual guides, severity indicators, and recommended next steps.
No jargon. No waiting for another appointment just to understand what your scan found. miraclarity is included free with every scan.
Book your scan
A standard brain MRI takes 30 to 45 minutes. With contrast or additional sequences, it may take up to 60 minutes.
Yes. MRI is the primary imaging modality for detecting and characterizing brain tumours. It can identify the size, location, and often the type of tumour.
Yes. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves, not ionizing radiation. It is considered very safe for most patients. The main contraindication is certain metallic implants.
Some patients feel anxious in the scanner. If you are prone to claustrophobia, inform the clinic beforehand. Some locations offer open MRI scanners, and sedation options may be available.
MRI can identify brain atrophy patterns associated with Alzheimer disease and rule out other causes of cognitive decline. However, a definitive Alzheimer diagnosis requires clinical evaluation alongside imaging.
A knee MRI uses magnetic resonance imaging to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the knee joint. Unlike X-rays, which show only bones, MRI reveals soft tissues including ligaments, cartilage, tendons, and the meniscus. This makes it the primary diagnostic tool for knee injuries and conditions.
A lumbar spine MRI produces detailed images of the lower back, including the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding soft tissues. It is the most accurate non-invasive method for diagnosing causes of lower back pain.
A shoulder MRI provides highly detailed images of the rotator cuff, labrum, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and bones of the shoulder joint. It is the most reliable non-invasive method for diagnosing shoulder injuries.
A hip MRI produces detailed images of the hip joint, including the femoral head, acetabulum, labrum, cartilage, tendons, muscles, and surrounding soft tissues. It is the most comprehensive imaging method for evaluating hip pathology.
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