Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic technique that produces computerized images of internal body tissue and is based on magnetic vibration of tiny molecules within the body induced by the application of radio waves. With no known side effects, MRI provides cross-sectional images of muscles, nerves, ligaments, tendons, spinal cord, brain, heart and breast.
Coming for an MRI afterhours? Learn more
Location, Hours and Contact
General site 4001 Leslie St, North York, ON M2K 1E1
Hours Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.
Contact Tel: 416-756-6118 Fax: 416-756-6353
NOTE: MRI hours of operation are 7 days a week, 24 hours a day
For all MRIs, please:
Wear clothing (including undergarments) made of cotton and free of metal. Zippers, clasps, wires and some threading can interfere with the MRI.
Remove make-up and all jewelry, including piercings.
Leave valuables at home. NYGH is not responsible for personal belongings.
If applicable, bring extra transdermal patches and continuous glucose meters (CGM) to apply after your examination. Patches will be removed before your MRI.
Patients with Pacemakers, Programmable VP shunts and Breast Tissue Expanders cannot receive an MRI.
Referrals for patients with implanted devices (aneurysm clips, heart valves, Cochlear implants, eye implants (with the exception of replaced intraoccular lenses,) stents, stimulator devices, porta caths or any type of pump which may be implanted) must be accompanied with the following: Make and model of implant, Manufacture of implant, Date of surgery for the implant
All MRI patients are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to their appointment with the exception of:
Enterography – Patients must come 1.25 hours prior to the test for oral contrast.
Breast MRI – Patients must come 45 minutes prior to the appointment to fill in additional forms.
MRI Abdomen and Pelvis studies with or without contrast – Must fast 4 hours before the test.
Rectal MRI studies – Patient must perform a fleet enema 1 hour prior to leaving home for the appointment. If patient has had an injury to eyes with metal, please arrange for the patient to have orbital x-rays prior to MRI.
Please do not wear any jewelry to the appointment as it will have to be removed for the scan. All patients will be required to change into a hospital issued gown for their own safety.If you are concerned about closed spaces, discuss it with your doctor in advance. Most patients do not require any medication even if nervous, but it is best to speak with your doctor who can help you decide if a prescription is needed. We will do our best to keep you comfortable.
Arrive at the hospital one hour before your appointment. You can expect to be at NYGH for your procedure for 2-3 hours.
Check in for your appointment at Medical Imaging Registration A on the first floor.
The technologist will go through a screening questionnaire with you. For your safety, this questionnaire is required each time you have an MRI.
At this time you can also ask any questions.
Right before the test you may be asked to change and will be asked to remove hearing aids, artificial limbs/braces, or items stuck to your skin. Ask the technologist if you are unsure about specific items.
You may be given a contrast injection. This is a special dye given through a vein (via IV) to help the team see the vessels clearly and show abnormal areas. When you’re given the contrast, you may feel a cool sensation in your arm. This is absolutely normal.
There is a small risk of allergy to the dye. Any symptoms are normally mild in nature, including hives, itchiness, or a rash. If you notice any symptoms after the injection, please notify the technologist.
The technologist will help you lie in the correct position on the table. The table will then be positioned into a five-foot long tunnel so that the body part being scanned is in the centre. Depending on the scan, a portion of your body may be outside of the tunnel.
The scan can be loud, so you will be given hearing protection. As the MRI scan begins, you will hear the equipment making a muffled thumping sound. You shouldn’t experience any pain with this test, however you may feel a little warm. In the unlikely event you do feel pain or discomfort, it is important to let the technologist know immediately so they may assess your situation. You can alert the technologist by squeezing the emergency call bell that you will have in your hand during the procedure.
It is important that you lie as still as possible during the procedure so that your images are clear.
You can return to normal activities immediately after your MRI. If you have taken a sedative, you must have a family member or support person take you home.
The results of your MRI will be sent to your physician within five to seven business days. Your physician will review the test results with you.
Your report can also be accessed through MyChart and PocketHealth two to three weeks after your test.
