One of the most common questions patients ask before booking a private MRI scan is: how long will it take? The answer depends on which body part is being scanned, whether contrast dye is used, and the complexity of the clinical question being answered. This guide covers typical durations for the most common MRI scans.
MRI scan times by body part
The table below gives typical scan durations for common MRI types. These are the time inside the scanner — allow an extra 15–20 minutes for check-in and safety screening.
Typical scan durations
- ✓Knee MRI — 25–35 minutes
- ✓Shoulder MRI — 30–45 minutes
- ✓Brain MRI — 30–45 minutes
- ✓Lumbar spine (lower back) MRI — 30–45 minutes
- ✓Cervical spine (neck) MRI — 30–45 minutes
- ✓Hip MRI — 30–40 minutes
- ✓Pelvic MRI — 40–60 minutes
- ✓Abdominal MRI — 45–60 minutes
- ✓Prostate MRI (mpMRI) — 45–60 minutes
- ✓Full-body MRI — 90–180 minutes
Why does MRI take longer than CT or X-Ray?
Unlike CT or X-Ray, which use ionising radiation and can image very quickly, MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to build up detailed images slice by slice. The machine needs to take multiple sequences — each targeting different tissue properties — which is what makes it so information-rich, but also slower. A knee MRI might involve 6–8 separate sequences, each lasting 3–5 minutes.
Does contrast dye make the scan longer?
Yes. If your radiologist requests contrast-enhanced MRI (using a gadolinium-based contrast agent injected into a vein), expect the scan to take 15–30 minutes longer than a non-contrast scan. The contrast agent improves visibility of tumours, inflammation, and blood vessels. It is very well tolerated by most patients.
At ScanBook partner centres, you will complete your MRI safety questionnaire online before your appointment — saving up to 20 minutes on the day. Most patients are in and out within an hour.
What happens during the scan?
You will lie on a padded table that slides into the MRI scanner — a large, doughnut-shaped machine. The scanner makes loud knocking and buzzing sounds, which is normal. You will be given earplugs or headphones. It is essential to stay completely still during each imaging sequence; even small movements can blur the images and may require sequences to be repeated.
Can I speed up my MRI scan?
Not directly — scan duration is set by the clinical protocol your radiologist chooses. However, you can minimise delays by: arriving 10 minutes early, completing your safety questionnaire in advance, removing all metal items before entering the scan room, and avoiding caffeine or stimulants that might make it harder to stay still.
Frequently asked questions
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