Hi
Has anyone had an MRI scan at the new North Staffs hospital?
I suffer from claustraphobia and panic attacks, so am absolutely dreading my appt.
Any info would be much appreciated.
Many thanks
I found it was more like being in a whiteout rather than being in some really close enclosed space, they can hear you if you speak and talk to you (and depending on the gizmo's they're using) a loud bleep goes off with your heartbeat so if it starts racing they can hear that as well, if you just lie back and close your eyes you could almost have a kip (if it wasn't for the bleeping, horns and other assorted loud noises)
Hope this helps 
ahh thanks for the response.
How long was the scanner? It's my leg that is going to be scanned, so hoping that all my body isnt in the machine! This may help?!
Was anyone allowed to come in with you?
Sorry for all the questions, I dont think I'll sleep for the next 3 weeks :-(
Thanks again
I think it's (the doughnut bit with the magnets in it) is about 6 feet long and the table you lie on is another 7 or 8 feet (the table slides into it), I'm not sure, it's big,, they did my Abdomen and I think I was about half way in,, you don't have to go in head first so if they're doing your leg then you might not even be completely in. I don't think they let anyone in with you, ring them up and ask, but I don't think so
Hello. Have you considered seeing a hypnotherapist for your phobia? In just a couple of sessions they could help you relax completely. I am one, but I am down in Maidstone so a bit far to help you. Good luck!
Liz :o)
I used to work as an assisstantt in MRI so hope I can help you. As it is your leg that is being scanned you should not go into the scanner itself. This is more for heads and backs, stomach etc. You will lie on the couch and will have some type of apparatus put over your leg. This acts as an aerial to pick up the sound waves that are coming from your leg. It should last around 20 - 40 minutes but depends on how much of leg is being scanned. It is very noisy but you are given some headphones to wear.( In the hospital where I worked, patients were also invited to bring a favourite CD to listen to!!!)
You are usually in the room alone but the radiographers can see you from a window at all times and you are given a buzzer to press if you feel you want to stop the procedure at any time, However it`s best to grin and bear it if possible. If you ask, you may be allowed to have someone with you. This is not usually done due to the amount of noise the 2nd person would have to endure - however more `phones may be available. Sorry it`s long but hope its been of hekp to you. GOOD LUCK!!