An MRI Scanner is an imaging machine that uses a large magnet, a computer, and radio waves to look inside the body and to evaluate many blood vessel disorders by using special non-invasive imaging techniques known as MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography).
MRI is painless. It requires minimal preparation and can lead to early detection and treatment of many health problems.
The scan will take from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the part of the body being scanned.
You will need to ring the hospital's radiology reception to organise an appointment.
Liverpool radiology reception: 8738 3454 or 8738 3455
Fairfield radiology reception: Not available at this site
Bankstown radiology reception: 9722 8131 or 9722 8150
Campbelltown radiology reception: 4634 3164 or 4634 3172
Ensure you have a pen and paper handy to write down any instructions required for your appointment. If you cannot attend your appointment please ring and inform us as soon as possible.
Preparation
You will need to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment time to allow preparation for your examination.
Bring any previous imaging with you that is relevant to the area we are scanning, such as x-rays, CT scan and any previous MRIs you may have had.
As the MRI uses a very strong magnet, no metallic objects or mechanical devices can enter the imaging room. You may want to keep this in mind when deciding what to wear to your appointment.
Below is a list of suggestion to help you prepare for your appointment.
- Clothing: it is best to wear something light weight and comfortable that is easy to take on and off if needed. Avoid wearing items of clothing that have metal buttons, zippers or hooks
- Jewellery: All metal jewellery and watches MUST be removed
- Hair accessories: Any clips, ties, or pins that are made of metal or have metal parts attached to them MUST be removed
- Make-up: some make-up, particularly mascara, is made with a metallic base. It is best not to wear any make-up on the day of your procedure
- Dental devices: If you wear dentures, or a partial plate, they MUST be removed (if possible) before the scan
- Special consideration: because we use a strong magnet in the MRI, patients who have pacemakers CANNOT have an MRI scan
You will be asked to complete an MRI Patient screening form prior to you exam.
Additional information or testing may be needed prior to your MRI scan to ensure that it is safe for you to have this test, especially:
- If you have any other implanted medical devices such as cochlear implants, aneurysm clips, artificial heart valves, or an intra-vascular stent
- If you have ever been hit in the eye or face with metal or metal shavings, or shot with a gun
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