Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a highly advanced medical imaging technology for showing images of various tissues and organs in different planes after computer reconstruction. MRI scan uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce images. Doctors can then make a more accurate and thorough diagnosis. It can provide extremely high-resolution medical images without ionising radiation, although an MRI scan is often costly.

Examination Process

The examination time takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the type of examination. Before the examination, our radiographer will explain examination procedure and ask about past medical history. Before entering the MRI scanning room, he/she will use a metal detector to check if there is any removable metal on the patient's body. During examination, the patient is asked to lay on the table and slowly move into the bore. Radiographer may place coils on top of patient's body to enhance signal receiving. Due to rapid change of gradient strength, the patient will hear noise in different tones and frequencies.  Earplugs will be provided for protection. A call bell will be given, in case of any emergency situations, the patient can still talk to our radiographer outside the examination room.

Preparations for Examination

• Please make an appointment. Please bring the latest relevant films and reports (X-ray, MRI, CT scans etc.) at the time of examination for comparison.
• Please notify our staff if you are pregnant or suspected that you are pregnant when you make an appointment.
• Please notify our staff if you have a cardiac pacemaker or aneurysm clips or metal implants when you make an appointment.
• Prior to the abdominal MRI scan, patients who have received colonoscopy and/or gastroscopy and have metal implants should notify our staff when making an appointment. X-rays maybe used to make sure the metals have been removed from the body.
• Please dress in casual clothing, and avoid jewellery, metals snaps and zippers.
• Please take off all accessories including earrings, watches and necklaces before the examination.
• Please do not wear makeup on the day of examination.
• Please notify our staff if you have Claustrophobia.
• If patients stop the examination while in the middle of taking it, patients will be charged extra. The additional charge will be HK$1,500 that is not covered by health plans.
• Please stay awake in the MRI machine.
• Children under 12 who require the MRI exam can be accompanied by an adult (i.e. parent or guardian). Anyone accompanying a patient into the exam room should declare herself if she is pregnant and should sign a consent form before entering into the exam room.

Preparations for Plain MRI Scan

• For Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) (Plain) - Fasting for 6 hours prior to the examination. No water or any fluid is allowed.
• For other examination - Light meals are allowed.

Preparations for Contrast MRI Scan

• For Upper Abdomen / Whole Abdomen (P+C) - Fasting for 4 hours prior to the examination, except drinking water.
• For other examination - Light meals are allowed.
• Water is allowed if no endoscopic procedures on the same day.
• For the patient aged over 60 or with impaired renal function, please notify our staff when making an appointment.
• MRI (“Primovist”, contrast injection required): 
  For patient with renal disease or had kidney operation, or currently receiving Metformin, a rapid test of serum creatinine is recommended prior to examination. Exempted patients include those who have renal function report with normal rental function within 48 hours before the scheduled examination. The rapid test charges HK$200.
• For patients who are allergic to any contrast materials, please notify our staff with three days in advance. Please be advised to bring in your medicines on the exam day.
• For the patient with Asthma or Any Allergies:
  Please notify our staff 3 days before scheduled appointment for examination.

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