You lie down on a special bed that moves into a tunnel-shaped magnet that is open on both ends. If you get nervous when you are in small enclosed spaces, your doctor can prescribe something to help you relax. There will be plenty of light and air and you will not be left alone. Help and assistance will be available throughout the procedure.

Most MRIs take between 30 and 60 minutes. You will have to be very still during the procedure so that the pictures will not be blurry. You will hear loud knocking and pounding type sounds while the pictures are being performed. You usually wear headphones so that the noise doesn't sound so loud and to allow you to listen to background music.

As there is no radiation the scanning room is perfectly safe. You may be allowed to bring a friend and children may have a parent acompany them.

MRI scans require a specialist's interpretation so you will not know your results immediately. The results will be sent to your doctor and they will discuss the results with you.