What should you know about head only mri scanner?

MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to show soft tissues such as the brain, nerves, eyes, sinuses, and blood vessels. A head-only system is designed around the head, while the rest of the body remains outside the main imaging area. The scanner is noisy and the examination requires stillness so movement does not blur the images. Some examinations use an injected contrast agent to make selected tissues or blood vessels easier to distinguish.

MRI is different from a CT scan and from a general [MRI Scanner](/technology/mri-scanner/) description, although both rely on magnetic imaging principles. A dedicated examination may be chosen when the clinical question concerns the head.

Tell the imaging team about pacemakers, implanted pumps, clips, metal fragments, cochlear implants, medication patches, kidney problems, allergies, pregnancy, and difficulty lying flat. Remove jewellery, watches, cards, hearing aids, and other metal items as instructed. Wear clothing without metal fasteners. You will usually have a call button or way to speak with the technologist. Practise slow breathing and use the agreed signal if you feel distressed. More detail about the examination is available on [MRI Scan](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/mri-scan/).

Most people return to normal activities after a non-sedated scan. If contrast or sedation is used, follow the team’s specific instructions. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, facial swelling, fainting, or a rapidly developing rash after contrast. Contact the imaging service if you have concerns about persistent symptoms or if an implant was not fully disclosed before scanning.

Why is a head-only MRI suitable for my question? Will contrast be needed? How long should I expect to remain still? Can I have support if enclosed spaces worry me? When and how will the result be explained?