How Long Does an MRI Scan Take? Times by Body Part
Updated: 4 days ago
Most MRI scans take about 20 to 60 minutes on the table. A scan of a knee or wrist is often on the shorter end, while a spine, abdomen, or contrast scan may take longer. The exact time depends on the body part, the type of exam your doctor ordered, and how still you can stay.
Plan a little extra time for check-in and safety screening. At Millenium MRI, most patients are in and out in about 35 minutes.
Typical MRI times by body part
These are general estimates. Your scan may be shorter or longer depending on your doctor's order and the imaging center's protocol.
Body part | Typical time on the table |
Brain or head | About 15 to 45 minutes |
Spine (one section) | About 30 to 60 minutes |
Abdomen | About 30 to 60 minutes |
Pelvis | About 30 to 60 minutes |
Knee, ankle, shoulder, wrist, or other joint | About 20 to 30 minutes |
Some scans take longer, such as exams that cover more than one area or that use contrast dye. If your doctor orders two or more body parts, such as the neck and the lower back, each area adds time.
What affects how long your MRI takes?
The body part and the question
Each MRI is built from several sets of pictures, called sequences. Each set shows tissue in a slightly different way. A simple joint scan may need only a few sets. A brain or abdominal scan may need more to answer your doctor's question. Learn more in our guide to types of MRI scans.
Contrast dye
Some scans use a contrast dye, usually gadolinium, given through a small IV. The technologist takes pictures before and after the dye goes in. Placing the IV and taking the extra sets adds time.
Staying still
Movement blurs the images. If a set comes out blurry, the technologist may need to repeat it, which makes the scan longer. Staying as still as you can is the best way to keep your scan on schedule. Read what happens if you move during an MRI for tips.
Breath-holds
For chest and belly scans, you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time. These scans can take a bit longer because the pictures are taken in short bursts.
Body size and positioning
Getting positioned comfortably and placing the coil, a lightweight frame that helps take sharper pictures, takes a few minutes. Larger areas of the body may need more sets to cover.
How long is the whole appointment?
Time on the scanner table is only part of the visit. Your appointment also includes:
Check-in: paperwork, ID, and insurance
Safety screening: questions about implants, metal, and past surgeries
Changing: removing metal items and putting on a gown, if needed
Positioning: getting set up on the table
The scan itself
Getting dressed and heading out
For many people, the full visit takes a bit longer than the scan alone. Arriving a few minutes early and leaving metal at home helps things move faster. For the full step-by-step, see our complete guide to what to expect before, during and after your MRI.
What happens during the scan
You'll lie on a padded table that slides into the scanner. The machine makes loud knocking and buzzing sounds, so you'll get earplugs or headphones. The technologist steps into the next room but can see and talk with you the whole time. You'll usually hold a call button in case you need anything.
If you feel nervous about being in the scanner, tell the staff ahead of time. Our guide on how to overcome claustrophobia during an MRI may help.
How long until you get results?
After your scan, a radiologist reviews the images and sends a report to the doctor who ordered your MRI. At Millenium MRI, board-certified radiologists read the scans, and results are usually sent to your referring doctor within 24 hours. Your doctor will go over the results with you.
Tips to keep your MRI on time
Arrive a few minutes early to finish forms
Bring your ID, insurance card, and doctor's order
Wear metal-free clothes and leave jewelry at home
Bring a list of implants, surgeries, and medicines
Use the restroom before the scan
Ask about food and drink rules ahead of time
Most scans have no food rules, but some do. See Can I eat before an MRI?
Frequently asked questions
Why does an MRI take longer than a CT scan or X-ray?
An MRI builds its pictures from signals collected over several minutes, set by set. CT and X-ray take pictures much faster. MRI shows soft tissue in great detail without radiation, which is why doctors often choose it. Read more in MRI vs. CT scan.
Does an MRI with contrast take longer?
Usually, yes. The technologist takes pictures before and after the dye, and placing the IV takes a few minutes.
Can I take a break during an MRI?
The machine goes quiet between sets, and you can talk with the technologist then. If you need to stop, use the call button. Stopping in the middle of a set may mean that set has to be repeated.
Is a full spine MRI longer than one section?
Yes. Each section of the spine, such as the neck, mid back, and low back, is usually scanned separately, so more sections take more time.
How can I make the scan go faster?
Get comfortable before it starts, then stay as still as you can. Following breath-hold instructions and keeping still helps avoid repeated sets.
Related reading
Schedule an MRI at Millenium MRI
Millenium MRI has centers in Ocala, Largo, and Tamarac, Florida, and in North Little Rock, Springdale, Jonesboro, and Marion, Arkansas. Most patients are in and out in about 35 minutes, and same-day appointments are often available. We accept most insurance plans, workers' compensation, personal injury cases, and self-pay. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. Call your nearest center or request an appointment online.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific situation.
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