Can I get the results of an MRI scan myself?

[beachtent]

hi all,

Not sure if any of you will know the answer to this. Recently I had an MRI scan to see if I've been having TIAs (mini-strokes) as I have a PFO (hole in heart) and accompanying symptoms. I feel so nervous about the results - I know that if I've had any strokes they will have to do heart surgery. to be honest I find this prospect terrifying. I'm pretty anxious about my health anyway, and have several other things going on too (like a malfunctioning immune system, for a start) and the thought of heart surgery terrifies me. I'm due to see the consultant next week to get the results of some recent investigations, including the MRI, but I'm driving myself mad with the waiting. I just want to know! Partly so I don't have to receive bad news while I'm there, and then not listen properly to anything else he says. I feel so nervous. I feel that if I know now, at least I can process my feelings a little (obviously if it's bad news) and then go and have a proper conversation. If it's good news, then at least I can stop worrying!

Does anyone know if I can get test results and has anyone done this before? I imagine they won't tell me!

Thanks

There's not much point in getting the results if you are not going to be able to interpret them in the context of your other health issues, so it would be best to wait and see your consultant.
From what you've said, the MRI isn't going to provide you with any new information, rather it was performed to confirm a diagnosis(ie that you've been having TIAs), so it sounds like you won't be hearing anything you don't already know at your appt.
If you have to have closure of your PFO, the most common way of doing it is percutaneously( a catheter passed into the heart via the femoral artery, very similar to an angiogram.) Most patients are out of hospital the following day.

I called them and the sarcastic secretary (why are they always sarcastic?!) said the whole reason for my appointment next week was to discuss the results. So, no, they won't tell me anything. Gits!

thanks stan - but I don't know if I've been having TIAs - that's why they did the scan, to see if I have or not. So, the results will be a surprise. Sorry if that wasn't clear.

I know the PFO closure procedure is straightforward and nothing as dramatic as open heart surgery, but it still scares me - I think this is normal? Most people having someone tinker with their heart would be anxious about the prospect I think?

Thanks for your reply!

I think it would be good to take another person with you if you are concerned that, being so nervous, you will not (understandably) listen properly to what the Dr says.