How Long Does an MRI Scan Take?

One of the most common questions before booking an MRI is: how long will it take? The answer depends on which part of your body is being scanned, whether contrast dye is needed, and the specific clinical question being investigated. This guide breaks down typical timings so you can plan your appointment properly.

Typical MRI Scan Times by Body Area

These times refer to the actual scanning duration — the time you spend inside the scanner. Allow extra time for check-in, changing, the safety briefing, and any post-scan chat.

What Affects How Long Your Scan Takes?

Body Area and Clinical Question

Different body areas need different numbers of sequences. A straightforward knee scan might need only 4-5 sequences; a complex cardiac MRI can require 15 or more. Each individual sequence lasts 2-7 minutes.

Contrast Administration

If your scan needs gadolinium contrast, the radiographer runs some sequences before the injection and more afterwards. This typically adds 10-15 minutes to the total time.

Scanner Strength

Higher-strength scanners (3T) can sometimes complete sequences faster than 1.5T machines, because the stronger signal means fewer repetitions are needed to build a clean image. Open MRI scanners (typically 0.3-1.2T) take longer — expect 30-50% more time than an equivalent closed-bore scan.

Patient Movement

If you move during a sequence, the images may be blurred and that sequence has to be repeated, adding time. Staying as still as possible is the single most useful thing you can do to keep the scan on schedule. For abdominal scans, you'll be asked to hold your breath at specific moments (typically for 15-20 seconds) — the radiographer will coach you through this.

Total Appointment Time

The scan itself may take 20-60 minutes, but plan for your total appointment to last roughly 60-90 minutes. Here's the breakdown:

• Check-in and paperwork — 10-15 minutes
• Changing and preparation — 5-10 minutes
• Safety briefing with the radiographer — 5 minutes
• The scan itself — 20-60 minutes
• Post-scan (cannula removal if contrast, changing back) — 5-10 minutes

If you're having a full body MRI, allow 2-2.5 hours for the entire appointment.

Tips for Managing the Time

• Arrive early — 15-20 minutes before your slot. Rushing through check-in adds stress.
• Wear the right clothes — Metal-free clothing (cotton tracksuit, t-shirt) means you may not need to change, saving time. See our preparation guide.
• Stay completely still — Movement means repeated sequences and a longer scan. Find a comfortable position at the start and commit to it.
• Use the toilet beforehand — A full bladder becomes very uncomfortable when you're lying still for 30+ minutes (unless a full bladder is specifically required for your scan type, such as certain pelvic examinations).
• Listen to something engaging — Most centres offer music through headphones. An audiobook or podcast can be even better for making the time pass quickly. Ask the centre what they offer when you book.
• Count the sequences — Each time the noise pattern changes, a sequence has finished. Ask the radiographer how many there are and count them down.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take a break during an MRI scan?

Yes. Squeeze the alarm button at any time and the radiographer will pause the scan. Taking a break does mean some sequences may need to be restarted, extending the total time. But the radiographer will always accommodate you — better to take a break than to move during a sequence.

Why do some MRI scans take longer than others?

Duration depends on the body area being scanned, the number of sequences needed, whether contrast is used, and the clinical question. A simple knee scan needs fewer sequences than a multiparametric prostate MRI or a cardiac stress test. More complex clinical questions require more sequences.

Is a longer scan better or more thorough?

Not necessarily. Scan duration reflects the number and type of sequences needed for your specific clinical question. A well-targeted 20-minute knee scan can be just as diagnostically valuable as a 60-minute cardiac study — the protocols are designed differently because they're answering different questions.

How long does a full body MRI take?

A full body MRI typically takes 60-90 minutes of scanning time, as it covers multiple body regions in a single session. The total appointment time (including check-in, preparation, and breaks) is usually 2-2.5 hours.

Can the radiographer speed up my scan?

The radiographer follows a set protocol with specific sequences designed for your clinical question. While they can sometimes adjust settings slightly, the protocol exists for a reason — skipping or shortening sequences could reduce the diagnostic value of the scan. Patience during the scan pays off in the quality of your results.