Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the most sophisticated imaging modality that has revolutionised modern radiology and overall is considered to be the best type of radiological scan.

MRI Scanning Technology.

The human body is made up of approximately 70% water and MRI takes advantage of these hydrogen atoms in the body to create extremely high quality imaging of body tissue.

MRI Scanners use a large and powerful magnet to align water molecules in the body in a particular direction. Radiofrequency (energy) waves, similar to those used in a commercial radio, enter the body, manipulating the magnetic alignment of the molecules. When these radiofrequency waves are switched off, the water molecules then release the energy that was imparted to them, a process known as “resonance”.

The manner in which molecules release this energy differs on the specific type of tissue and is dependent on other factors, including the local magnetic field in our body at the molecular level. This released energy is then detected by a coil as a signal, which is then digitised and processed to form an image.

MRI technology uses energy in the radiowave spectrum and thus does not result in any radiation exposure. For this reason, MRI is of particular use in the evaluation of paediatric patients, whose organs are more radiosensitive than adults.

MRI Does Not Use Radiation.

Percentage Composition of Water in the Human Body
MRI scanners use powerful magnets and radio waves which aligns hydrogen atoms in the body in one direction.
MRI, X-ray, and CT scan radiation exposures of the head

Versatile and Sensitive.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is extremely versatile and sensitive, with the ability to differentiate between different body tissues, such as the grey and white matter of the brain, cartilage, bone, tendons, fluid and fat.

This is one of the advantages of MRI over ultrasound. For example, an ultrasound scan will provide excellent resolution of the rotator cuff tendons of the shoulder, but is unable to exclude any problem inside the shoulder joint, such as a cartilage or labral tear, arthritis or bone injury. MRI can look at all these structures.

dGEMRIC MRI.

delayed Gadolinium Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Cartilage

MRI has the ability to even identify early cartilage breakdown at the molecular level prior to the development of a visible defect and overt arthritis utilising a technique known as delayed Gadolinium Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Cartilage, or dGEMRIC.

Similarly, though CT can obtain excellent views of the brain, MRI can differentiate with far greater resolution the grey and white matter of the brain.

a man operating a digital x-ray machine

MRI Scan Safety and Comfort.

As MRI scans do not utilise radiation, the process is completely safe for patients of all ages, including in pregnancy. Having to lie down still may result in a degree of discomfort which can be alleviated with rapid acquisition images, proper position and adequate padding.

What Happens During an MRI Scan?

Keeping extremely still during the MRI scan is important as movements can affect the quality of the images.  The technician (radiographer) will keep in close contact with you via a speaker system in order to keep you informed of the progress of the scan, as well as provide you with the opportunity to give any feedback.  You can avail of noise-cancelling earphones so you can relax and block out any sounds from the machine.

Our Referrers - Melbourne Radiology Clinic
Magnetom Espree wide bore MRI machine

Do I Need To Prepare For An MRI Scan?

No preparation is required for an MRI scan. You can eat and drink as normal beforehand. You need to remember to remove external metallic devices beforehand as well as not apply eye make-up as this can degrade image quality.

If you are claustrophobic or anxious about being in small/confined spaces, we ask that you let us know about this in advance so that we can make arrangements with providing a relaxing ambience in the scanner using music of your choice. Rarely, a light sedative to make the experience more comfortable for you may be provided however you must let our staff know at the time of booking so that you are advised to attend earlier so that it may take effect.

You will be provided with a buzzer during the scan regardless which you can press to instruct our team to stop the scan if it all gets a bit too much for you.

Melbourne Radiology Clinic – Your Local Specialists in MRI Imaging Services

If you require an MRI scan, then Melbourne Radiology Clinic are your local medical imaging specialists, with an expert imaging services MRI scan team. Other than MRI scans, We also offer examinations including MRI scan for knee injuryMRI & X-ray for shoulder injuryachilles tendon tear mri & many other diagnostic radiological services in Melbourne.

Contact us today to book your MRI scan appointment and we can assist you further with your enquiry.

Wide Bore MRI - Melbourne Radiology Clinic

Further Information.

Referring doctors are  welcome to discuss with our radiologists the imaging needs of their patients and whether MRI is suitable for their patient’s medical condition.

Specialist Radiologists.
a male doctor looking at brain MRI scans
MSK & MRI Fellowship Trained Radiologists
At Melbourne Radiology Clinic, all patient scans are reviewed by fellowship trained musculoskeletal and MRI specialist radiologists: