MRI Brain

An MRI of the brain produces detailed images of your brain and brain stem.

Your doctor may have requested a brain MRI for detecting a number of brain conditions, including:

• Aneurysms (bulging in the blood vessels of the brain),
• Multiple sclerosis,
• Spinal cord injuries
• Hydrocephalus (a build up of spinal fluid in the brain cavities),
• Stroke,
• Infections,
• Tumours,
• Cysts,
• Swelling,
• Hormonal disorders (acromegaly and Cushing syndrome),
• Bleeding (haemorrhage),
• Inflammation,
• Problems with development or structure,
• Blood vessel issues,
• Investigating ongoing symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, seizures, changes in thinking or behaviour, blurry vision, or chronic headaches.

There are many other reasons for your doctor ordering a brain MRI that is not included in this list.

You will need to arrive 30 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 MRI's you may have had.

All patients (except for diabetics) are required to fast for four (4) hours prior to your appointment time. You may drink clear fluids but do not eat.

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 has 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. (link to MRI Screening safety form)

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.

You will need to remove any items of clothing with metallic objects such as belts, bras and zippers. You will be given a hospital gown to wear if required. You will be allocated a locker for your personal belongings to be kept safe during the MRI scan.

During the MRI exam, you will be lying on a firm table. A piece of equipment called a coil will be placed over your head. This device is essential for the sending and receiving of radio waves that produce the image. The radiographer will move the table to the centre of the MRI machine. The inside of the machine is like a giant tunnel that is well lit and open at each end.

You will need to lie completely still for the duration of the scan so ensure you are comfortable before it begins.

The MRI makes loud knocking noises while we take the image and we will provide you with ear plugs to reduce the noise.

The radiographer will leave the room on the commencement of the scan but will be able to see you through a window. There are speakers located inside the MRI to enable you and the radiographer to communicate if you need to. You will also be given a call bell if there are any problems during the procedure.

When the test is completed, you are able to leave. In the 24-48 hours following the injection, you may experience discomfort over the injection site and within the joint. Panadol or Nurofen may be taken as necessary to alleviate the pain.

If these symptoms persist please see your local doctor.

A specialised doctor will carefully analyse your images and make a report for your referring doctor. If the referring doctor is in the hospital they will be able to access the results on their computer. If you are an out-patient and require a copy of the images then a disc of images can be made available within 5 working days after the MRI scan.