MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a safe, advanced imaging test that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create highly detailed images of the body. MRI plays an important role across many areas of medicine. It is commonly used alongside mammography and ultrasound to further assess breast conditions in high-risk patients, particularly younger women with dense breast tissue. MRI also complements CT and ultrasound in evaluating the abdomen and pelvis—including the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and rectum — as well as the spine, joints, and muscles. At Sydney Imaging Specialists, we offer both 1.5T and advanced 3T MRI scanners to tailor each scan to your needs.

Preparation

MRI scans usually require an appointment.

To make a booking, please ensure your referral is provided in advance by emailing it to referral@sydneyimaging.com.au or following the steps via request an appointment online. Once your referral has been sent, we will reach out back out to discuss or you can call us on (02) 9044 3200.

Please advise us if you are, or may be pregnant.

You will be informed of any necessary test preparation, at the time of booking.

Remember to bring your referral, Medicare and Pension/Health Care cards and previous imaging, relating to the region being scanned. If you do not have hardcopies of your films, please advise us with the name of your previous imaging provider, so that we may attempt to access them electronically.

If you have a recent eGFR blood test result, please bring the result to your appointment.

Patient being prepared for an MRI scan by a radiologist in a modern imaging suite

What to expect

During your MRI, you will lie comfortably on a table that gently moves into the scanner. Remaining still is important, and for some scans you may be asked to hold your breath briefly. To minimise noise, we provide earplugs and a headset for your comfort.

Some MRI examinations require a contrast injection (gadolinium) to enhance image detail and help identify subtle findings. Reactions are uncommon, and our experienced team completes thorough safety checks before administering contrast to ensure your wellbeing. All contrast studies are performed under radiologist supervision.

If you experience claustrophobia, please let us know at the time of booking. Our modern, wide-bore scanners, spacious rooms, and calming sky and wall panels are designed to create a more relaxed experience. Our team is highly experienced in supporting anxious patients, and in many cases sedation is not required.

Your results

Sydney Imaging Specialists provides patients with secure, electronic access to their images and reports. When you come into the practice you will be invited to access our patient app, where you can securely view your images and reports.

For instructions click here.

To log into the desktop version click here.

At your appointment you will be sent an SMS inviting you to create your account. Your images are then available 1-2 hours after your appointment. Your results require time to be reviewed and will not be available immediately. Once finalised, they will be sent to your referring doctor.

We highly recommend that you return to your referring doctor to discuss your results

FAQs

Some types of surgery and electronic implants, such as cardiac pacemakers, may affect your ability to have an MRI. The safety questionnaire you complete allows us to carefully check this for you.

MRI with Implanted Device Preparation Guide

MRI Prostate Preparation Guide

MRI Abbreviated Breast Preparation Guide

This will depend on your scan type, and our team will confirm the details when your appointment is booked, along with any preparation required.

For patients

Complete the request an appointment form and the team will be in touch promptly

Request an appointment

For clinicians

Send a referral, and our team will ensure it’s managed smoothly

Send a referral