Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides a detailed image of the body and its internal structures, making it an important medical diagnostic. These scans help doctors identify medical conditions, diseases, and injuries and can provide detailed information of a condition that will help with effective treatment planning. Now, you may be wondering: How long does an MRI take? In this blog, we’ll discuss every aspect of MRI.
What is An MRI?
An MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging, a scan which is a painless test that provides you with clear pictures of structures and organs inside your body. MRI uses radio waves, a large magnet, and a computer to generate these detailed images. X-rays are not used by MRI. It is the imaging test of choice when people need frequent imaging for treatment monitoring or diagnosis, especially of the brain.
How Long Does MRI Take?
An MRI scan can be done quickly. Sometimes, it may take as little as 15 minutes. However, the time duration it takes may vary depending on the part of your body being scanned, the number of images that need to be taken, and whether contrast dye is needed.
- MRI of a knee might take around 30 to 60 minutes. During the procedure, many small devices may be put around your affected area to get clear images.
- MRI of a shoulder may take around 45 minutes. However, in some cases, it can be done within 15 minutes. Glenroy GP can also advise if you need to go through an MRI for your shoulder, especially if a condition limits your movements and affects daily activities.
- MRI of your brain may take around 30 to 60 minutes. However, if the scan doesn’t need a contrast dye, it can be done within 30 to 45 minutes.
- Lumbar spine MRI may take around 30 to 60 minutes, which can help identify causes of back pain.
- Cervical spine MRI may take around 30 to 45 minutes to complete the scan.
- MRI of the heart may take more than 45 minutes. This scan can identify if a person is vulnerable to developing heart failure or if a person is struggling with a heart problem.
- Chest MRI generally takes less than 90 minutes. You may need to undergo a chest MRI if you have an injury or experience a condition in your chest area.
- A breast MRI might take around 30 to 60 minutes. In some cases, individuals may need contrast dye and, as a result, the procedure may take up to 90 minutes.
- An abdominal MRI usually takes around 30 to 90 minutes. Abdominal MRIs can be used for various reasons, such as abdominal swelling, blood flow, and fetal development.
- A hip MRI usually takes around 45 minutes.
- A pelvic MRI might take around 30 to 60 minutes. The procedure may take longer if many pictures are required.
What Factors Can Affect MRI Duration?
Here are some factors that determine how long your MRI will take:
- The number of images required: If various images are required for in-depth analysis, your MRI might take longer than a scan taking fewer images.
- The part of the body being scanned: If a large area of your body needs to be scanned, then it might take a long time to complete the scan.
- Contrast dyes: MRIs that need a contrast dye may need an extra 15 to 30 minutes to complete the scan.
- Sedation: Movement can blur images taken during an MRI procedure, so people who find it difficult to stay still may need sedation before the procedure.
Conclusion
Most types of MRIs could take between 15 and 90 minutes to complete the scan. Sometimes, your MRI might be longer or shorter, depending on different factors like the number of images required and the part of your body getting scanned. On the other hand, if your MRI needs contrast dye, it might usually last a little longer than MRIs without contrast dye. When you consult with any doctor at Magnus Medical Centre Glenroy, they may advise you whether you need to undergo an MRI scan or not for a specific health condition.
