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MRI Preparation

All patients are asked to arrive 10 minutes before their scheduled appointment time to complete the required paperwork.

All patients must bring  -

• The request form from their doctor
• Medicare or DVA card, and any government issued pension or health care cards
• All previous x-rays or scans of the area being examined

The MRI scan uses a very strong magnetic field to create detailed images of the body. Some people are unable to have an MRI because of medical devices implanted in their bodies. Your referring doctor should complete the section on the MRI request form to check that you are able to undergo an MRI examination.
Below is a list of items that need to be checked;-

Not safe to have an MRI

• Pacemakers
• Defibrillators
• Implanted insulin/drug pumps
• Cochlear implants

Need to check details – will need copies of theatre reports to determine exact type of implant

• Aneurysm clips/coils
• Heart valves
• Aortic/carotid/iliac/vascular stents
• Portacaths
• IUDs
• Bullets/shrapnel (may need to do an x-ray to check position before the scan can be done)

Considered safe after 6 weeks post surgery

• Cardiac stents
• Joint replacements
• Surgical clips, screws, staples, mesh or pins
• Dental implants
• Cataract surgery/ lens implants

If you have EVER done any welding, grinding or metalwork you will need to have your eyes checked for metal fragments before having your MRI. This involves an x-ray of your eyes and can be done immediately before your scan. Please inform our receptionist of this when making your appointment so we allow time for this to be done.

Patients will be asked to remove all jewellery and clothing except underpants and change into a gown for their examination. Piercings and jewellery can move or heat up in the MRI scanner and cause injury. If you are unable to remove jewellery please inform the staff member doing your scan before your examination.