MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)
What is an MRI?
MRI uses a strong magnetic field and low-energy radiofrequency waves to examine a specific area of your body. The frequency of the radiofrequency waves used in MRI is similar to those used for FM radio stations.
The main advantage of MRI compared with other imaging modalities is that it provides the highest soft tissue resolution. Therefore, body structures such as the brain, nerves, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, spinal cord, breast and the abdomen are highly suited to MRI examinations.
MRI is painless and does not use ionising radiation.
The MRI examination
When you arrive you’ll be asked to complete detailed forms relating to your medical history. Interpreters must accompany patients who may have trouble completing these forms by themselves. If these forms cannot be completed accurately the MRI scan may need to be postponed.
Our experienced staff may need to research your previous surgery to determine your suitability to MRI. For example, some surgical implants are contraindicated to MRI.
All patients will be asked to change into a patient gown and most examinations will take 15 to 25 minutes to perform. You will be positioned on a bed with specialised equipment encompassing the area to be examined. This equipment is called an RF coil and it is required to acquire the information emanating from your body.
The region undergoing examination must be placed in the centre of a cylindrically shaped magnet. Some patients may experience claustrophobia. Our MRI technologists are very experienced managing anxious patients. The vast majority of MRI systems used at Capital Radiology are ‘claustrophobic-friendly’. All MRI systems are open cylinders with lighting and pleasant airflow.
Our MRI technologist will ensure you are as comfortable as possible prior to starting the examination as you will need to remain still for the entire scan. If you are uncomfortable, it is important you communicate this to our staff, so they can adjust your position or use additional soft padding to ensure your examination is as pleasant and relaxing as possible.
The MRI will make loud, rhythmic noises throughout your examination. Generally, patients do not find this unpleasant. You will be asked to select your preferred music genre or radio station to listen to, and will be provided with headphones to make your scan as pleasant as possible. Ear plugs can also be provided for those who are particularly sensitive to sound. All patients will be handed a squeeze ball which can be used to stop the examination in case you need to communicate with the MRI technologist.
At times, an intravenous contrast injection may be required to make your examination more accurate. This injection is called gadolinium and it is essentially a paramagnetic material which highlights various structures and pathologies. Patients sometimes feel cool at the injection site and may experience a metallic taste.
Your MRI results
At the conclusion of your MRI scan, you will be able to go about your day normally. Once our consultant physician – a radiologist – interprets your images, a specialist report will be sent directly to your referring doctor usually within one-to-two working days. Please inform our receptionists if you would like a copy of the report to be forwarded to another health professional.
Before the appointment
A booking is required for a MRI scans. The locations of our MRI scanners are listed on your Capital Radiology referral form, or you can find your most convenient Capital Radiology site by viewing our locations. We accept all radiology referral forms, so even if you have a form from another service provider we will happily perform your test.
Some examinations can be covered by Medicare with no out-of-pocket fee. Please note, Medicare does not cover all MRI scans, so in some cases, a private fee will be charged.
When making your appointment you will be asked what the examination is for, and a series of questions related to metallic implants which may affect your scan. Most MRI scans do not require any preparation, only abdominal examinations require you to fast for 8 hours prior to the scan.
Please remember to bring:
Your referral form
Medicare card / concession card
Any prior imaging