Preparation Guide · MRI

MRI Scan Preparation

A few simple rules make your MRI smooth and accurate. Here's exactly what to do before your scan at our Baddi center (Philips 1.5T).

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Before the Scan

Your pre-scan checklist

Metal check first — tell us about pacemakers, cochlear implants, clips, stents, artificial joints or metal fragments before booking. Many modern implants are MR-conditional, but some — including older pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, some aneurysm clips and metal fragments in the eye — mean the scan cannot be done, or must be done under special conditions. Bring the implant card or operation note. We will not scan you until the implant is documented as MR-safe or MR-conditional. This is a hard safety rule.
Fasting — most MRI scans need no fasting. Only specific studies (like MRCP for the bile ducts) need 4–6 hours fasting. We confirm when you book.
Dress comfortably — loose clothes without metal zips, hooks or buttons, or use our gown. Leave jewellery, watches, belts, keys, cards and phones at home or in the locker.
Medicines — take your regular medicines as usual, and carry the list.
Claustrophobic or anxious? Tell us in advance — we can arrange breaks, music, and a family member to stay nearby. For very anxious patients, your doctor can prescribe a mild relaxant. If you take a relaxant, you must not drive — bring someone with you.

Discussing MRI preparation with Dr Kanhaya Lal at Hope Diagnostics Baddi

During the scan

You lie on the scanner table; it slides into the machine. The scan is painless but noisy — ear protection is given, and you can listen to music. Stay still and breathe normally. Most scans take 20–45 minutes.

With contrast

If your scan needs contrast (gadolinium), it is injected through a small IV line. Patients with known kidney disease, diabetes with kidney involvement, or age over 60 need a recent creatinine/eGFR report before contrast. Tell us about contrast allergies beforehand. The injection feels cool for a few seconds — that's normal.

After the scan

You can eat, drive and resume normal activity immediately (unless sedated). Reports are usually ready the same day, and your doctor receives a copy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers. If you have any other question, call or WhatsApp us — we reply fast.

Can I eat before an MRI?

Yes, for most MRI scans you can eat and drink normally. Only specific scans (like MRCP for the bile ducts) need fasting — we will tell you when you book.

What if I have a pacemaker or metal implant?

Many modern implants are MR-conditional, but some — including older pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, some aneurysm clips and metal fragments in the eye — mean the scan cannot be done, or must be done under special conditions. Bring the implant card or operation note. We will not scan you until the implant is documented as MR-safe or MR-conditional.

How long does an MRI take?

A typical scan takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on the body part. The Philips 1.5T at our Baddi center is fast, and you can relax with music in most scans.

Still unsure? Contact us or call +91 89504 54111.