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MRI scans

MRI safety with implants

A guide to MRI safety with pacemakers, joint replacements, clips, coils and other implants, including what MR-conditional means.

What to expect

  • Preparation: Usually none - eat, drink and take medication as normal unless told otherwise. You will complete a safety questionnaire covering implants and previous surgery, and remove all metal items before the scan.
  • During the test: You lie on a motorised couch that moves into the scanner. The machine is noisy, you wear ear protection, and you need to keep as still as possible. Most MRI examinations take 20-45 minutes.
  • Results: A consultant radiologist reports the scan, typically within 24-72 hours of your appointment.
  • Who follows up: The report goes to your referring GP or specialist, who explains the findings and arranges any follow-up.
  • Cost: an indicative cost varies by provider.

About this test

A guide to MRI safety with pacemakers, joint replacements, clips, coils and other implants, including what MR-conditional means. It is essential reading before booking if you have any implanted device or metal from previous surgery.

How to access it privately

You can arrange a private MRI either with a referral from your GP or specialist or, for many scans, by self-referring as a self-pay patient with a short pre-scan questionnaire. Routine NHS diagnostic waits are often long - frequently measured in months - whereas private slots are typically available within days to around two weeks. Costs vary by provider and should be confirmed with the provider before booking.

Frequently asked

Common questions about MRI safety with implants.

Quick, plain-English answers to what people ask us most.

  • What does MRI safety with implants involve?

    This refers to the process of checking whether it's safe to have an MRI scan if you have a medical implant or device, such as a pacemaker, joint replacement, surgical clips or a cochlear implant. Different implants have different levels of MRI compatibility, so this is checked carefully before every scan.

  • Why is this important to check before a scan?

    MRI uses strong magnetic fields, and some older or certain types of implants can heat up, move, or malfunction inside the scanner if they aren't compatible. Checking in advance protects your safety and can also help the team choose the right scanning approach if adjustments are needed.

  • What should I tell the scanning team if I have an implant?

    Let them know the type of implant, when and where it was fitted, and if possible bring any implant card or documentation given to you at the time. If you're not sure of the exact details, your surgeon's records or GP can often help confirm this before your appointment.

  • What happens during the safety screening process?

    Before your scan, you'll be asked a detailed set of screening questions, and the radiographer may need to check the make and model of your implant for compatibility. In some cases, this might mean contacting the implant manufacturer or your surgical team to confirm safety before proceeding.

  • What are the risks if an implant isn't MRI-safe?

    Depending on the device, risks can include heating, movement of the implant, or interference with how it functions, which is why unsuitable implants are identified and excluded from scanning in advance. Most modern implants are designed to be MRI-conditional, meaning they're safe under specific scanning conditions.

  • How long does the safety check add to getting my scan and results?

    The screening process itself usually adds only a short amount of time to your appointment, though gathering implant details beforehand can occasionally take a few days if records need to be traced. Results reporting afterwards follows the usual timeline, typically a few days for a private scan.

  • What happens if my implant isn't suitable for MRI?

    If your device isn't compatible, your doctor may consider an alternative type of imaging, such as CT or ultrasound, depending on what's being investigated. This is decided on a case-by-case basis, so it's worth raising early with your care team.

  • Is there an extra cost for implant safety checks, and is this covered on the NHS?

    Safety screening is a standard part of any MRI booking, whether NHS or private, and isn't usually charged separately. Cost for the scan itself varies by provider when you book privately.

  • How reliable is implant safety screening?

    When done thoroughly, with accurate implant details, safety screening is a well-established and reliable process used at every MRI centre. The key is providing accurate and complete information about your implant, which is why documentation or manufacturer details are so helpful.

  • How do I book a private MRI if I have an implant?

    Contact the imaging provider ahead of booking to discuss your implant details, so they can confirm suitability before you attend. Many providers can still offer an appointment within a few days once safety is confirmed.