who can have an mri scan?

Skip the page content navigation if you do not require links to content sections within this page.

Page Content Navigation

Skip the primary navigation if you do not want to read it as the next section.


Primary navigation

home | about cancer | cancer types | tests | treatments | living with cancer | help and support | involving people |

Skip the main content if you do not want to read it as the next section.


Because the MRI scanner uses a powerful magnet, you may not be able to have the test if there is metal in your body. Your doctors will need to check that the test is suitable for you. For example, you may not be able to have it if:

  • you have a pacemaker

  • you have certain types of artificial joints or heart valves

  • you have clips in the head following brain surgery

  • you have metal fragments in your body

People with dental fillings and bridges, hip and knee replacements can all be scanned safely.

We also prefer not to scan women in the early stages of pregnancy, although this is not known to be harmful.




The following page sections include static unchanging site components such as the page banner, useful links and copyright information. Return to the top of page if you want to start again.


Page Extras

Site Map

Skip the main banner if you do not want to read it as the next section.


Page Banner


End of page. You can return to the page content navigation from here.