Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnets, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed images of the body. An MRI can detect tiny changes of structure in the body, particularly in soft tissue, spinal cord and brain, the abdomen and joints.

MRI is commonly used for:

  • Sports related injuries of the soft tissue and joints
  • Diagnosing heart conditions
  • Examining the chest and abdomen
  • Examining the brain and spinal cord

Resources

MRI Procedure Information
Do I need an MRI?

Appropriateness guidelines for MRI of the shoulder, knee, hip and lumbar spine.

Pediatric MRI Resource

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need an MRI?

View our Do I need an MRI? brochure to view appropriateness guidelines for MRI of the shoulder, knee, hip and lumbar spine.

Are patients allowed to have companions during medical imaging exams?

Patient companions often provide patients with a sense of physical and/or emotional safety while the patient is having a medical imaging procedure performed. Learn more

Stories@IH

Read our latest stories

4 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Jonnathan Quintero leads with curiosity and compassion, advancing patient safety, collaboration and quality improvement at IH.

3 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Indigenous Patient Navigator Deb Donald has spent time in nearly every area of Royal Inland Hospital. There are few places in the hospital she hasn’t been.

4 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

As a young child, Julie Davenport struggled to be understood. Now she oversees Early Childhood Development programs, thanks to a speech-language pathologist.

3 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

Learn how to stay safe in B.C. waters when blue-green algae blooms, or cyanobacteria, are present.

4 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Moved by her son's health journey, Alana Haynes found her calling helping young patients at Kelowna General Hospital feel more at ease and parents reassured.

5 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Cheryl Whittleton’s 40-year IH career spans bedside care to senior leadership, grounded in compassion and a commitment to strengthening the future of nursing.

STAY CONNECTED

Receive news, alerts, public service announcements and articles right to your inbox.

mail