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Description of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI creates cross‑sectional and three‑dimensional images of your body using magnetic fields and radio‑frequency signals. Unlike X‑ray or CT, MRI does not use ionising radiation, making it suitable for repeated imaging and long‑term monitoring.

MRI is commonly used to evaluate:

  • Brain and neurological symptoms
  • Spine and nerve conditions
  • Musculoskeletal injuries (tendons, ligaments, cartilage, joints)
  • Abdominal and pelvic organs (liver, kidneys, bowel, uterus, prostate)
  • The heart and blood vessels
  • Tumours, infections, inflammation, and complex diseases

MRI provides exceptional clarity of:

  • Soft tissues
  • Muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage
  • Nerves and the spinal cord
  • Organs and internal structures
  • Blood vessels (using MRA techniques)

The scan is performed by a qualified MRI technologist and interpreted by an experienced radiologist. Modern MRI systems reduce noise, improve comfort, and provide fast, high‑resolution imaging.

Frequently asked questions about Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

How do I prepare for a MRI?

Most MRI scans require little preparation, but safety screening is essential due to the strong magnetic field.

You must inform staff if you have:

  • Pacemakers or cardiac implants
  • Cochlear implants
  • Surgical clips or aneurysm clips
  • Neurostimulators
  • Metal fragments in the eye
  • Insulin pumps or drug infusion devices
  • Magnetic dental implants
How do I prepare for a MRI?

General preparation guidelines:

  • Remove all metal (keys, jewellery, credit cards, hairpins, piercings)
  • Avoid makeup and hairspray (may contain metallic particles)
  • Wear loose clothing without metal zips or bring a change of clothes
  • Bring any previous X‑ray, CT, ultrasound, or MRI studies
  • Notify staff if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Some scans require fasting (you will be advised if needed)

If you are claustrophobic, sedation may be provided. Please arrange a support person to drive you home if sedation is used.

What happens during the MRI scan?
  • You may be asked to change into a gown.
  • You will lie on a padded table that moves into the MRI scanner.
  • A buzzer will be given to you to alert staff at any time.
  • Earplugs or headphones are provided because MRI is noisy.
  • The scan consists of several sequences, each lasting 30 seconds to a few minutes.
  • It is important to remain still to ensure clear images.
  • Some scans require brief breath‑holding.
What is a contrast injection?

Some MRI exams require an IV contrast agent (gadolinium) to highlight blood vessels, inflammation, or abnormal tissue. Contrast is generally very safe. Inform staff if you have kidney issues or previous contrast reactions.

How long does a MRI scan go for?

Most MRI scans take 15–30 minutes. More specialised studies may take 40–60 minutes. You can usually go home straight after the procedure unless sedation was used.

Risks and Safety

MRI is extremely safe when proper screening is completed. There are no known long‑term side effects.

Risks are mainly related to:

  • Metal implants interacting with the magnet
  • Rare allergic reactions to contrast
  • Claustrophobia

Benefits of MRI

  • No radiation
  • Exceptional soft‑tissue imaging
  • Safe for children and long‑term monitoring
  • Highly accurate diagnostic information
  • Ability to image almost any part of the body in any direction

Advicon Imaging – Modern MRI technology, expert radiologists, and full Medicare bulk‑billing for all eligible scans.

Feedback from our patients

Advicon Imaging Reviews

Clinic

Amazing front desk staff, polite and friendly. Staff doing the procedures were amazing and professional. Clean and good location plus they accept Medicare bulk billing. Overall the place offers good service.

Gela

Hornsby Clinic

Advicon Imaging provides excellent service. The staff are professional and friendly, the facility is clean and well-maintained, and waiting times are minimal.

Liezel

Hornsby Maddison Clinic

Really impressed with the service here. The staff were friendly, professional, and welcoming, and I was in and out very quickly. Made the whole process easy and comfortable. Highly recommend

Alyson

Gladesville Clinic

I highly recommend Advicon Imaging West Ryde. They gave me the first available appt which was the day after I got the referral. No wait time. And X-Rays and ultrasound all bulk billed. Amazing! The ultrasound technician was lovely. The X-Ray results were texted immediately. The ultrasound and report are available in 2 days.

Lisa

West Ryde Clinic

What an amazingly great service—and especially wonderful people—work here! From the very first step, the receptionist, Mirella, was so lovely and did everything she could to help us organize an ultrasound for my daughter (even though we didn’t have an appointment). The technicians were very friendly and professional. They kindly squeezed us into the queue so we could get the service done. Truly impressed by both the service and the quality!

Irina

Hornsby Clinic

I had such a positive experience today. The customer service was genuinely caring, and the doctor made me feel completely at ease with their friendly and gentle approach. The entire staff was incredibly helpful and kind. Definitely a five-star experience!

Ehsan

Hornsby Clinic

I recently had a CT scan at this imaging centre, and I was very impressed with their service. The billing process was straightforward with bulk billing, and the centre offers easy access. The staff were friendly, professional, and made the experience stress-free. I’ve visited both of their locations, and they are conveniently situated near Hornsby Westfield, which makes them very accessible. Highly recommend for anyone needing imaging.

Jo

Hornsby Clinic

Lovley and friendly receptionist. Felt at ease while waiting. The actual process was quick and painless. If I ever need a cat scan, I would not hesitate to come back. Though perhaps the cat may feel differently.

Dave

Hornsby Maddison Clinic

The receptionist Mirella was very helpful and quick to arrange my Mum’s ultrasound. She had a wonderful attitude. The technician Lily was very thorough and patient while completing the ultra sound. They provided excellent care and service for my mum.

Michelle

Hornsby Maddison Clinic

Advicon imaging is a great friendly place and most things are bulked billed. They are easy to book. If you have any issues they will sort it out. The girls at reception are really nice and accommodating. The staff who do X-Ray, CT scan, ultrasound are great to deal with.

Aaron

Hornsby Maddison Clinic

Great communication from booking process through to examination. Wait times were minimal and the whole process was great (well as great as a medical ultrasound for a torn muscle). My clinician Perry was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. As were the administration/reception staff.

Ros-Alan

Gladesville Clinic

Highly recommend! We had a baby ultrasound here and they kindly accommodated us at the last minute. No waiting time and great service — will definitely come back next time!

Jaz

Gladesville Clinic

Advicon Imaging was extremely professional, from the referral stage right through to the medical scan. Appointment options were flexible based on my availability and the appointment time was adhered to. All staff were professional yet friendly.

Sharna

Gladesville Clinic

We had such a positive experience here. The staff were warm and patient with my young child, and took the time to explain every step in simple language so that they could understand. The whole visit was quick, organised, and the facilities were clean and comfortable. We were in and out within 10min. I wouldn’t hesitate to come back here again and highly recommend them to anyone who feels nervous about scans.

Jenny

West Ryde Clinic

I just visited the new imaging center in West Ryde, and I’m truly impressed! All the staff were so kind and welcoming, which made me feel comfortable right away. Everything — from check-in to the actual scan — was handled quickly and efficiently, with almost no waiting time.

Amy

West Ryde Clinic

I had an ultra sound with Robin who thoroughly explained everything to me as he conducted the scan, unlike most radiologists! Today I had to have a CT scan with Jason who was just as kind and professional. I thoroughly recommend this place. The whole team from receptionists to radiologists are running a fantastic service.

Nalan

West Ryde Clinic

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