Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

We have a strong reputation as leaders in MRI imaging. Our experienced radiologists are strongly committed to education, research and fellowship training. Our MRI fellowship program is highly sought after by radiologists from around Australia and New Zealand.

Wide boar MRI imaging service at Imaging Associates.

What is an MRI?

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a non-invasive medical test that clinicians use to diagnose and treat certain conditions. MRI uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio waves to produce detailed images of organs and structures inside the body.

A great advantage of an MRI scan is that it doesn’t use ionising radiation (x-rays) and it provides very detailed information on structures that may not be seen as well on x-ray, ultrasound or CT.

MRI scans have revolutionised medical imaging. They image protons in the water molecules in our body that act like tiny magnets. MRI uses magnetic fields and incredibly sensitive coils to detect changes in the protons after application of magnetic fields. As such, the scans can provide exquisite detail of most parts of the body. As with the evolution of computers, MRI scans have reduced in time and increased significantly in resolution allowing us to detect extremely subtle abnormalities. MRI uses no radiation and as such is safe for all ages. MRI complements our other imaging tools such as x-ray, ultrasound and CT scans.

What to expect during an MRI

The MRI unit is shaped like a short tube, open at both ends and is brightly lit. The patient lies in its centre on a moveable table. The body part being imaged is placed centrally within the tunnel and a receiving device or coil is placed on or around that part. The scanner can be noisy and earplugs and headphones are used. The scans vary in length from 15 – 45 minutes. An experienced technician will be in regular communication throughout the study. If you need to talk to us, the MRI team will give you a buzzer. Despite the earplugs you will hear rhythmic electrical sounds and may feel vibrations, all of which are normal. You may feel some warmth in the area being scanned. It is important that you remain as still as possible during the study so we can obtain the best possible scans.

Once completed, your study is sent to our specialist MRI radiologists for interpretation and reporting. Our radiologists have an enormous depth of knowledge in all MRI subspecialties ensuring that we always have the appropriate doctor to read your scans.

Book an MRI near you

Schedule an MRI by completing our booking form or calling your nearest Imaging Associates radiology clinic now.

MRI imaging services are available at our Melbourne, Gippsland and Wagga Wagga locations.

Imaging Associates accepts all medical imaging referrals, even if written or printed on another radiology company’s request form.

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Caring radiographer with a young patient having an MRI at Imaging Associates.

What you need to know

You will be required to complete a safety questionnaire on arrival, and our team will discuss any previous surgery, implants or electronic or magnetic devices with you. We may need documentation identifying the make and model of a device, so please let us know at the time of booking and bring any relevant documents with you. If you have a history of kidney disease or have had a liver transplant, please ensure that you bring any recent blood test results. If you do not understand English, you will need to bring a support person to help you interpret.

What we need to know

Please advise us if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.


Related radiology services

A CT scan produces images of your internal organs and structures, which help to diagnose and monitor pain or disease and guide treatment.

An Ultrasound scan is an imaging technique using sound waves transmitted from a handheld transducer, which can image most body parts.

X-ray imaging is commonly used to visualise injuries of the arms and legs, but is also used for the shoulder, clavicle and chest.