MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an advanced technology that uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to produce images of various parts of the body including, bone, soft tissue, ligaments, muscles, joints, blood vessels and other internal organs.

Please advise reception staff at time of booking if you are claustrophobic.

Patients with cardiac pacemakers cannot have an MRI due to the strong magnetic field. Other exclusions include some ear implants, certain brain aneurysm clips and various other medically implanted devices.

Patients with metallic foreign bodies in their eyes, through grinding/welding, are excluded from MRI and may be required to have a screening X-ray to exclude metal.

Depending on the area being imaged, some preparation instructions may apply. These will be advised to you at the time of appointment scheduling.

On arrival you will be asked to complete our MRI safety questionnaire. This is to ensure it is safe for you to have the scan, and to be exposed to the strong magnetic fields.

You will be positioned on the MRI table, inside a tunnel for the duration of the examination. Various foam pads are available for support/ comfort. Often, a separate receiver coil or antenna is placed on or around the region being imaged.

Due to the noise of the scanner you will be given headphones to wear. You will also be given a call buzzer to gain the attention of the MRI technologist at any time.

The examination is painless. You may hear the machine make a slight buzzing noise as image sequences are taken. It is important you keep as still as possible during the examination.

Some MRI examinations require an injection of a contrast medium to allow imaging of blood vessels/vascular tissues. If required, this will be discussed prior to the injection. Reactions to MRI contrast are very rare.

Our Radiologist will review the images and issue a report. Once completed, the report will be sent electronically to your referring health professional.