We have a strong reputation as leaders in MRI scans. 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.
Our radiologists have an enormous depth of knowledge in all MRI subspecialties ensuring that we always have the appropriate doctor to read your scans.
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.
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.
Book an MRI scan
Our MRI services are available at our Box Hill, Drouin, Warragul, and Wagga Wagga clinics.
To book an MRI scan at Imaging Associates, click the button below, or call one of our clinics today.
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.