How often can an MRI be performed on the same person safely?

MRI uses high magnetic fields and radio frequency and not x-ray. The procedure is generally safe and typically repeated examinations do not cause any problems.

However, some MRI scans use a Gadolinium-based contrast agent, so repeating MRI scans within a few days may expose a patient to higher-than-expected levels of the contrast agent in the blood, which can be affected by kidney function. Patients should check with their doctor before having a repeat contrast MRI scan within a few days.