TOLL FREE:
1-866-611-2665
Medical imaging allows radiologists to see inside the body, helping them detect potential concerns and share those findings with your physician. For certain exams, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a contrast material (also called contrast dye or contrast agent) may be used. The contrast material helps highlight specific structures, making it easier to identify abnormalities.
The type of contrast material depends on the type of medical imaging your physician has requested. It is not a permanent colouring agent, but a temporary substance that changes how X-rays or magnetic fields are absorbed or reflected by tissues. This creates clearer separation or “contrast” between different areas of the body, improving the visibility of organs, blood vessels, and tissues.
A CT scan uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce comprehensive images of specific areas of your body, including your bones, chest, head, joints, lungs, and spine. CT scans provide more detail than regular X-rays and can detect conditions that may not be visible with other imaging methods.
If a CT scan requires contrast, it may be administered either intravenously or orally:
MRI uses a strong magnetic field to provide very clear images of the body and is often ordered to help diagnose stroke, aneurysms, or multiple sclerosis. Using magnets and radiofrequency waves MRI can help find diseases of the brain, spine, skeleton, abdomen, and soft tissues.
An MRI uses a different type of contrast material, gadolinium-based compounds. Gadolinium alters the magnetic properties of nearby water molecules, enhancing the visibility of tissues on MRI scans. It is administered intravenously. Most patients do not notice any sensation, although a few will experience a cold feeling in the arm during the injection.
Contrast materials are safe and rarely produce side effects, such as allergic reactions. However, certain allergies and medical conditions, such as kidney disease, can increase your risk of side effects. While reactions are rare, we are well-equipped to deal with them.
When booking your exam, you will be asked about your allergies, medical conditions, and any previous reactions to contrast materials. This information helps us identify if you may be at higher risk for complications. Please answer these questions carefully, and include details about your current medications, health conditions (including allergies or pregnancy), and any past contrast-related reactions.
After your exam, your body will absorb or naturally eliminate the contrast material through urine or bowel movements. Drinking plenty of water can help this process along. Most people feel completely fine afterward, but if you notice unusual symptoms, such as diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting, contact your doctor. If you ever experience signs of an allergic reaction, like difficulty breathing, itching, or hives, call emergency services immediately.
We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the imaging and forward the results to your doctor in a timely manner. Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.
In Calgary, CT and MRI exams are provided at our Mayfair Place location as private pay exams and are not covered by Alberta Health Care. Prices are per body area. If additional body areas are scheduled within the same appointment, discounts apply. For example, the abdomen is one body area, while the spine is divided into three body areas. We also offer CT Health Assessment packages.
In Saskatchewan, we provide MRIs as a publicly funded, community-based service under contract with the Saskatchewan Health Authority and as a private pay exam. Private MRI services in Saskatchewan are provided in accordance with and under the legislation of the Province of Saskatchewan. Prices are per body area. If additional body areas are scheduled within the same appointment, discounts apply.
We offer a 10% Seniors discount (65+) that can be applied to the first exam.
Your health spending account or group medical insurance plan may cover the cost of a private CT or MRI that is prescribed by a qualified health care practitioner. You will need to check with your plan administrator for coverage details.
Radiology Info (2024) “Contrast Materials.” www.radiologyinfo.org. Accessed August 15, 2025
Inside Radiology (2017) “Iodine-containing contrast medium.” www.insideradiology.com.au. Accessed August 14, 2025.
Inside Radiology (2017) “Gadolinium Contrast Medium (MRI Contrast agents).” www.insideradiology.com.au. Accessed August 14, 2025.
Our Refresh newsletter delivers the latest medical news, expert insights, and practical tips straight to your inbox, empowering you with knowledge to enhance patient care and stay informed.
By subscribing to our newsletter you understand and accept that we may share your information with vendors or other third parties who perform services on our behalf. The personal information collected may be stored, processed, and transferred to a country or region outside of Quebec.
Please read our privacy policy for more details.
At the heart of everything we do is a belief that every image tells a story—and every story deserves care.
At Mayfair Diagnostics, we provide state-of-the-art medical imaging that helps patients and physicians get the clarity they need to make informed decisions about health. From routine check-ups to complex diagnoses, our role is to deliver answers with compassion and accuracy.
We offer a full spectrum of imaging services, including:
MRI, CT, and X-Ray for advanced diagnostic insight
Ultrasound and Mammography for preventative and women’s health
Nuclear Medicine, Bone Density, and Cardiac Imaging for specialized care
Pain Management and Interventional Procedures to improve quality of life
But our work extends beyond exams and equipment. As the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada, we connect urban, rural, and remote communities with expert radiology services—ensuring access to care when and where it’s needed most.
We also partner with local organizations, sports teams, and community groups to keep people healthy and active. From professional athletes to families booking their first screening, our commitment is the same: timely results, advanced technology, and compassionate care.
To improve lives with clarity, compassion, and care—one focused image at a time.
But numbers only tell part of the story. What truly defines us is our culture of compassion. We’re a team of caregivers, innovators, and problem-solvers who share a commitment to excellence. Whether supporting frontline care, developing new technology workflows, or guiding a patient through their appointment, we approach our work with empathy and integrity.
At Mayfair, you’re not just part of a company—you’re part of a community. Together, we’re shaping the future of health care, making advanced imaging accessible, and creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.
WHO WE ARE. WHAT WE DO. Why we’re more than a workplace
At Mayfair Diagnostics, we’re caregivers, nurturers, creators and thought leaders—deeply rooted in a passion to help people. We deliver meaningful work, compassionate care, and an environment where every team member can thrive.
Key Points:
Founded on over a century of excellence in medical imaging.
Owned and operated by 50+ radiologists, supported by 400–640+ employees across clinical, technical, administrative, and support roles.
Operating 17 locations across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and beyond (14 in Calgary, plus Cochrane, Regina, Saskatoon).
Serving 600,000–700,000 patients annually, delivering over 90,000 radiological interpretations—the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada.
Vision & Mission:
Vision: “A world in which every person has clarity about their health.”
Mission: “To improve people’s lives, one focused image and one caring, compassionate human touch at a time.”
