- Good to know ahead
- Its Scan day
- What happens now?
How do I make an appointment?
You have the option to either call us directly (647-910-2639) or book online, whichever is most convenient for you. To ensure a smooth booking process, we kindly request that payment be made at the time of booking through a credit card. Please note that a requisition from your primary care physician is a necessary requirement. If you do not have one, don't worry! We can easily arrange for a referral from one of our esteemed physician partners. However, if we are unable to obtain a requisition from our partners, we will promptly refund you in full and assist you in rescheduling once the requisition is available.
How do I prepare for my study?
Before your MRI scan, you'll be required to change into a gown to ensure the accuracy of the procedure. You'll also need to remove all metal objects, including hairpins, piercings, jewelry, watches, bracelets, bras with metal underwire, metal-based makeup, or hearing aids, as these items can interfere with the imaging process.
For your convenience and peace of mind, a locker will be provided to securely store your personal belongings and valuables during the scan.
Who Should Avoid an MRI Scan?
MRI machines produce powerful magnetic fields. You may not be able to have an MRI if you have the following:
- Pacemaker
- Aneurysm clips
- Artificial heart valve
- Stents
- Cochlear implants
- Any non-MRI compatible metal-based prosthetic implants
Is a deposit required to secure an appointment?
Yes, to secure your appointment date and time, we do require a payment. Please note that last-minute cancellations might not always be fillable.
What if I need to cancel or change my appointment?
No Show/Refund policy: If you need to reschedule, you must do so 48 hours before the appointment to avoid a charge.
Processing Fees for Cancelation & Rescheduling
Cancellation notice more than 48 hours before the appointment: $85
Cancellation or rescheduling within 48 hours of the appointment: $200
If you fail to show up for your appointment with no notice, you will be charged the full amount on your credit card on file.
Does OHIP or private insurance cover this test?
OHIP or private insurance companies do not cover the cost of this test nor are there any plans in the foreseeable future. We provide elective healthcare services, and our clinic offers competitive pricing and personalized care.
Do I Still Need Routine Mammograms or Colonoscopies?
This study does not replace your routine mammogram and/or colonoscopy. It is essential to have these tests performed on a routine basis.
Where do the studies get performed?
All studies are performed at Whole Body MRI clinics, either at their Mississauga or Ajax facility. Free parking is provided.
How Often Are MRI Results ‘All Good’?
Most people have some form of abnormality or findings in their bodies. For instance, due to our sedentary lifestyles, where we spend a lot of time sitting in front of screens, almost everyone has some degree of spine degeneration. However, many of these findings are harmless, and it's essential to be aware of them when we are healthy so they aren't misinterpreted as something more serious later on. It's worth noting that less than 5% of individuals receive life-changing news.
The weight limit for a full-body scan
Our Open Bore MRI can handle individuals weighing up to 550 pounds (249 Kg).
Scheduling Appointments for Others
Certainly, it is possible to schedule an appointment on behalf of someone else. However, we would require the individual's details and contact information in order to proceed. Our team will then reach out to the person to obtain their patient history and verify their eligibility for the scan.
Can I Get an MRI with an Infusion Pump?
Whether you can undergo a scan with an implantable infusion pump or not will depend on the model of the pump. We need to know the specific model before proceeding.
Can I Get an MRI While Pregnant?
While no negative impacts have been recorded from undergoing an MRI while pregnant, it's essential to note that there is a chance of hearing issues in the fetus and a potential increase in amniotic fluid temperature. As a result, we generally refrain from performing an MRI during pregnancy unless your referring physician determines that the benefits of the scan outweigh the potential risks involved. If you think you might be pregnant, it is best to confirm and follow the guidelines above.
Is it safe to undergo a scan if I have a pacemaker?
Unfortunately, it's not advisable to undergo a scan if you have a pacemaker. This is because there's a possibility that the MRI magnetic fields might interfere with its functioning, and we wouldn't want to take any risks.
MRI with a cochlear implant: Is it safe?
To determine the safety of undergoing an MRI scan with a cochlear implant, we would need to know more about the type of implant you have. Even if it is determined to be safe, it's important to keep in mind that the quality of imaging of the head may be affected by the implant.
Can I have an MRI if I have an IUD?
The majority of IUDs are compatible with MRI scans. However, we always confirm the MRI safety of all devices. Examples of commonly MRI-safe IUDs include the Mirena and the Copper T.
Is MRI safe with a prosthetic implant?
There are various types of implants. Most can be used in MRI scans without a problem, but we'll need to know more about yours. Just keep in mind that the implant might slightly affect the pictures we take of the surrounding area.
MRI Safety with a Neurostimulator Implant?
Whether it's possible depends on the specific model. Certain neurostimulators can be switched to an MRI mode prior to the scan. Before your MRI, we'll need information about the model you have.
Is MRI safe with an Aneurysm Clip?
Whether or not you can have an MRI with an implanted intracranial aneurysm clip depends on the specific type of clip used. To proceed, we'd require additional details. It's generally safe to undergo an MRI if the aneurysm clip is non-ferromagnetic.
Can I have an MRI if I have epilepsy?
Absolutely, you're able to have the MRI. To ensure your safety during the procedure, we'll be taking extra precautions. Kindly remember to inform the staff before entering the MRI room.
Is an MRI Safe with Fillings or Gold Teeth?
Yes. This is completely safe.
Is it safe to have an MRI if I have tattoos?
Indeed, individuals with tattoos can undergo scanning. There's a minor possibility of slight warmth around the tattoo, although this is extremely uncommon. To ensure a smooth process, please let the staff know before entering the MRI room so that they're informed.
Is MRI Safe if I’ve Worked with Metal?
If there's a possibility of metal fragments, especially in the eyes, being present in your body, we'll need to conduct a brief X-ray to ensure the scan's safety. To arrange for the X-ray, please reach out to us about a week or two before your scheduled scan.
Do I need a referral to do an MRI scan?
Yes, a referral is necessary to proceed with a Whole Body MRI. If needed, we can help you obtain a referral from an independent medical practitioner without any charge. While it might appear like an extra step, this requirement is in place to ensure your well-being in case any significant medical discovery is made. A medical practitioner can guide you in comprehending and putting any findings into perspective.
Are dental implants affected by MRIs?
No, undergoing an MRI with dental implants is considered safe. However, if you have dentures on a metallic plate, we might ask you to remove them for optimal image quality.
Do you accept payments through credit cards?
Yes, we do accept payments through Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Can I pay with personal checks or cash?
While we do accept cash payments, unfortunately, we cannot process personal checks.
Is tax added to the cost of my Whole Body scan?
Yes, the cost of your Whole Body Scan is inclusive of all the taxes.
What type of machine do you use for MRI scans?
We use both 1.5T and 3T machines to optimize the benefits of both machines. While 1.5T machines are used for comprehensive Whole Body MRI, 3T are used for detailed scans of specific body parts, i.e. knee joints & brain.
Does your MRI procedure involve radiation?
No, all of our MRI procedures are completely radiation-free.
What Sets Whole Body MRI Apart?
Technology - Besides meticulously planned SOPs, our biggest USP is the latest MRI machines we utilize for scans. Unlike anyone in the industry, We have both 1.5T and 3T machines to provide 360-degree scanning for every situation.
Turnaround Time - With our seamless process integration and advanced infrastructure, we can take the entire Whole Body MRI scan in just 45-60 minutes and the scan results will be delivered in 10-14 business days.
Exceptional Imaging - We take 2000+ images of the entire body during the full-body scan. A large number of scan images and industry-tested scanning practices ensure accurate screening results and low false positives.
Do your MRIs involve contrast agents?
We use contrast agents for only specific scans. We do not use contrast agents for Whole Body MRI.
How can I schedule an appointment?
You can easily schedule an appointment through our website by clicking "Book Your Scan'' at the top right corner or here. Alternatively, you can contact us at +1-647-910-2639 or send an email to info@wholebodymri.ca
How do you detect Alzheimer’s disease?
Our Comprehensive Whole Body Scan examines the brain in detail, employing three methods:
- Advanced Alzheimer's detection: Advanced stages of Alzheimer's are discernible through brain images.
- Tissue loss observation: Precise MRI images of brain segments reveal tissue loss in concerning areas of the temporal lobes, indicating Alzheimer's.
- Baseline comparison: Initial scan images establish a baseline brain volume for comparison in subsequent scans, highlighting any volume changes. For Alzheimer's concerns, a clinical cognitive assessment is also recommended.
What can I expect during my appointment?
When you have your examination, you will be asked to lie down on a table which will then slide into the MRI machine. The machine may make loud noises, but we can supply you with headphones or earplugs to help reduce the noise. If you feel claustrophobic, you can ask the doctor who referred you for sedative medication that is suitable for you.
How long is my appointment?
The Whole body MRI study takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. You will need to arrive 30 minutes prior for screening and registration.
Is it safe to move while using the machine?
During the scan, we will do our best to ensure your comfort and minimize the need for movement. However, if you do happen to move, it won't compromise your safety. It may, however, impact the quality of the images we obtain. To achieve accurate results, we capture images of the same tissue in your body multiple times, from different angles and with varying tissue weightings. Any movement can disrupt this process and affect our ability to align the images, ultimately affecting the accuracy of our reading.
Who reads my scan?
Our reports are read by a Radiologist MD who completed their residency at the prestigious University of Toronto and a Clinical Fellowship at Harvard University, with more than 20 years of experience in this field.
