Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

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What is Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI)?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most powerful imaging tools in modern medicine. It’s a non-invasive and painless procedure that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body’s internal structures.

An MRI image is clearer and more detailed than any other type of scan. It’s trusted by doctors and Radiologists to identify and accurately characterise disease.

It’s used to diagnose a broad range of medical conditions, including cancer, heart and vascular diseases, and muscular and bone abnormalities. MRI Scans can also assist with devising a treatment plan and assessing its effectiveness.

Types of MRI Scans

At ERAD we offer several types of MRIs, including:

Abdominal and Pelvic MRI
Brain MRI
Head MRI
Knee MRI
Lumbar Spine MRI
Pelvis MRI
Prostate MRI
Whole Body MRI

Reasons you could be referred for a MRI Scan

Assessing damage from injuries
Screening and searching for tumours
Searching for blocked or damaged blood vessels
Diagnosing arthritis
Checking for organ damage
Screening for signs of dementia or cancer metastasis

What to expect during your MRI Scan

You will be asked to lie down on a table that will slide into a large tunnel-shaped magnet. The radiographer will position you so that the area being examined is located in the middle of the machine.

Depending on which examination you’ll be having, a small IV may be placed into a vein in your hand or arm. At a specific time during the exam, the contrast material will be injected to further enhance the MRI images.

The MRI scan can be time-consuming, lasting anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes. If you suffer from claustrophobia or struggle to keep still for prolonged periods, your doctor may give you a sedative.

What happens once your MRI Scan is complete?

Once your MRI test is complete, your images will be sent to the computer-enhanced analysis system. One of our specialist radiologists will analyse and interpret your scan before compiling a written report of your results for your referring physician.

Preparing for your MRI Scan

Before your scan can take place, your radiographer will ask you to fill out a detailed questionnaire. We want to know if you have any contraindications that would prevent us from performing your MRI Scan.

MRI’s use magnetic fields instead of radiation, so they react to most forms of metal. If you have a pacemaker, or an artificial heart valve, brain aneurysm clip, an intrauterine device (IUD), cochlear implant or some other metal implant, proceeding with the scan could be potentially dangerous.

Once your attending Radiographer is happy that you have no contraindications, only then will you be allowed to enter the magnet room.