mri

Your Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan

What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a method of looking inside the body without using surgery or x-rays.
The MR scanner is a large doughnut shaped magnet open at both ends. It uses a strong magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce clear pictures of the human body. This technology is important because MRI scans can demonstrate to your doctor the difference between healthy and diseased tissue.

What will I feel or hear?
Our MRI scanner The examination will not hurt. You will feel nothing from it either during or after the test. You will hear tapping noises.
These can sometimes be quite loud, so you will be provided with ear plugs or earphones.

What about radiation?
MRI uses Magnetism and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of organs within your body.

What do I have to do prior to the examination?
You will be asked to change into a gown. The following items cannot be taken into the scan room because of the strong magnetic field (a locker is available for any valuables): Watches, scissors, removable jewellery, shoes, pens/ pencils, wallet/coins, credit cards, keys, dentures, wigs, hairclips, mobile phones, clothing with metal attachments eg bra, jeans/pants with zip. If you are having a head scan, do not wear eye make-up.

What do I have to do during the examination?
Our MRI Scanner All you have to do is relax and keep absolutely still. The radiographer will position you on a padded table (usually on your back) and this will slowly be moved into the scanner. The scanner is air-conditioned and well lit. You will be able to hear and talk to the radiographer via an intercom system at all times. You have a choice of recorded music to listen to during the examination. A friend or family member may safely accompany you in the scan room, if you wish.

How long does it take?
MRI examinations may take up to 1 hour to complete. This time is broken into a series of scans each 5 minutes on average.

Is any medication or injection required?
Most scans do not involve any medication. Some patients will be given a small injection into a vein to improve information on the images. Do not be concerned if you are given an injection, as with some examinations this is routine procedure. If you are a nursing mother, you will have to contact the MRI unit 2 days prior to your appointment

Will this examination cure/treat my symptoms?
MRI is not a treatment. It is a test to try to diagnose the cause of your illness or symptoms.

When will the results be available to me?
The images will be reviewed by the radiologist who will forward the images and a report to your referring doctor. This can take 1 or 2 working days. Your doctor will then discuss the results with you.

Regarding your account
The Federal government provide a medicare rebate for most MRI scans ONLY if referred by a specialist. We encourage you to inquire about our fees which are payable on the day of the examination.

Please note there are certain patients on whom we cannot perform the test. That is why we ask you to complete an in depth questionnaire, when you arrive for your examination. You will also be asked several questions at the time of making your appointment. If you have any queries please contact the MRI staff at our 'St. Vincents' rooms on 66222399 8:00 am to 5:30 pm

Download the NCR MRI information. In PDF format. Requires Acrobat Reader.

Download the NCR patient questionnaire. In PDF format. Requires Acrobat Reader.