MGH campus transformation
MGH’s campus transformation continues with major renovation work this winter and spring. Patients and visitors can expect to experience hallway closures and detours around the hospital. Read more here.
MRI – Magnetic Resonance Imaging
MRI is a non-invasive imaging tool used to aid in diagnosis, staging of progression of illness and treatment planning. It uses a powerful magnetic field and radiofrequency waves rather than radiation to see the structure and function of organs in the body. Images have superior soft-tissue contrast and can differentiate between tissues, bones, muscles, spinal cord, etc.
Appointments and Referrals
We are here to support you. You may reach us at 416-469-6401 (the main DI line) from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
If you require assistance outside of regular business hours, you may choose one of the following options:
- Leave a voice mail message at 416-469-6401
- Send us an email at @email
What to expect
For all MRI exams, please be prepared to answer MRI screening questions prior to your exam. If your English is limited and you need a translator, please arrange for one.
If you are taking a relaxant medication, please bring your medication with you and arrive 1 hour prior to your appointment. You will need to take your medication 20 minutes before your test. Please arrange for someone to drive you home.
Please remove all jewelry and piercings for your MRI and review the following instructions.
- Please advise the technologist if you are on dialysis, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- MRI Enterography: Please arrive 1 hour prior to your appointment time. You should allow at least 3 hours for the exam. Do not eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam. Take your medications as prescribed. Diabetic patients may drink juice or other clear liquids if their diabetic condition requires them to do so. You may need to consult your doctor to adjust your diabetic medications. Your MRI may include a contrast injection.
- MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography), MRI Abdomen, Liver, Pancreas, Enterography and Pelvis: Please fast for 4 hours before the exam. You may take oral medications with small amount of water. Please note that your MRI may require a contrast injection.
- MRI Arthrogram: Please note that this is a 2-part exam, the first being your arthrogram, which is the injection of contrast directly into the joint followed by the MRI exam that will take place approximately 1 hour later. You may drive after the procedure but you might want to arrange for someone to drive you home.