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Cochin Hospital – Port-Royal · AP-HP · Paris Cité University
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Interventional Radiology Cochin
Cochin Hospital AP-HP AP-HP
Radiology A: Imaging

Cochin Hospital · AP-HP · Paris Cité University

️ rdv.radioa.cch@aphp.fr Contact us
Interventional Radiology›Radiology A›MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Radiology A · Diagnostic imaging

🔬 MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging

How is an MRI performed?

Quick answer

MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves, without X-rays, to produce very detailed images, particularly suited to soft tissues (muscles, tendons, pelvic organs, liver). Longer than a CT scan, it does not irradiate the patient.

What is it?

MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves, without X-rays, to produce very detailed images. Particularly suited to soft tissues (muscles, tendons, pelvic organs, liver), it is longer than a CT scan but involves no radiation at all.

⏱️ Duration: 20 to 30 minutes depending on the region examined.

How to prepare

1

Remove removable dentures, piercings, jewellery, watch and any medication patch.

2

You must report any metallic implant: pacemaker, defibrillator, brain stimulator, cochlear implant, vascular clips, prosthesis, screws.

3

Tell us if you are pregnant (especially in the first trimester) or claustrophobic.

4

Fast for 4 hours if a gadolinium injection is planned.

5

You will change into a hospital gown.

How does it go?

1

You lie down and the table slides into a tunnel. Stay as still as possible.

2

The machine makes loud, repetitive noises. Ear protection or headphones are provided.

3

Duration: 20 to 30 minutes. A call bell allows you to contact the radiographer at any time.

4

If gadolinium is injected: it is very well tolerated, with no sensation of warmth.

5

If you are claustrophobic: tell us when booking, as an anxiolytic can be prescribed.

After the examination

1

You can resume all activities immediately.

2

If gadolinium was given: drink plenty of fluids.

3

The report is sent to your doctor within 2 to 5 working days.

✅ MRI does not use radiation and can be repeated without restriction.
⚠️ Contraindicated with certain metallic implants (non-MRI-compatible pacemaker, old vascular clips). Report any implant when booking your appointment.

Frequently asked questions

How long does an MRI last?
The duration varies according to the area examined and the number of sequences, generally between 20 and 30 minutes. The secretariat will tell you the expected duration when you book your appointment.
What should I do if I am claustrophobic?
Tell us when booking your appointment: solutions exist (a more open MRI if available, accompaniment, anxiolytic premedication on prescription). Do not hesitate to discuss it with your doctor before the examination.
Can I have an MRI when pregnant?
MRI does not use X-rays and can be performed during pregnancy if the indication justifies it; gadolinium injection is generally avoided unless absolutely necessary. Always report an ongoing pregnancy.

Do you have a question about your examination?

️ rdv.radioa.cch@aphp.fr Contact us

Why you can trust this page

Written by the Radiology team at Cochin Hospital AP-HP, Paris Cité University. Medical review by a radiologist of the department. Last updated: July 2026.

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