What is an MRI Scan?
MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a highly sophisticated imaging technology which uses a powerful magnetic field combined with low energy radio-frequency waves (RF) to create high definition images of the tissues of the body.
MRI is one of the most advanced imaging technologies in use today. It does not use any radiation (unlike CT and X-Rays), and no known harmful effects have been demonstrated from MRI.
MRI scans provide high resolution images of a variety of body parts, particularly the soft tissues including muscle, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, the brain, spine and internal organs.
Transformational Technology
Panorama Radiology Specialists uses the most sophisticated 3 Tesla MRI technology available, which uses sophisticated Artificial Intelligence image enhancement to provide clearer visualisation of fine anatomical structures such as tiny nerves and ligaments, which may not be clearly visualised using older generation MRI technology.
PRS has invested in specialised MRI technology including high resolution Prostate multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) software which enables early detection of small tumours of the prostate gland, and MRI Discography (Disc Spectroscopy), which can localise inflammed intervertebral discs high in Lactate which may be a source of chronic pain, and offers a non-invasive alternative to conventional invasive Discograms which may be associated with significant discomfort.
3T MRI scanners are not all the same. Comparison scans of a patient scanned on Panorama’s advanced Siemens 3T MRI with Deep Resolve AI (LEFT), vs the same patient scanned on a conventional 3T MRI machine elsewhere (RIGHT).
What Happens During My MRI Appointment?
MRI scan time at our Benowa Gold Coast clinic varies, with scan times between 8 minutes and up to 30 minutes for complex or multi-region scans.
In some cases we may give an injection of MRI contrast dye (Gadolinium) which allows visualisation of a higher level of detail in certain clinical situations. Contrast dye may be injected intravenously or in some cases directly into a particular joint (MRI arthrography) to allow optimal visualisation of fine ligaments and joint cartilage.
Our staff will explain what is involved for your MRI scan, and you will be given a Questionnaire to complete which gives us essential information about your medical and surgical history, any metal implants or allergies.
You may be asked to change into a gown for your scan.
Please advise our staff if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. MRI is not known to have any adverse effects or health risks, however we do exercise precaution in pregnancy.
No Metal Objects
The MRI contains a powerful super-conducting magnet which generates a strong magnetic field – this means metal objects must not be taken into the scan room as they could be rapidly dislodged by the magnetic field or heat up, which could be potentially dangerous.
It’s essential that you remove any metal objects on your person including earrings and other piercings, phones, watches, keys, coins necklaces, bracelets and other jewellery.
Please advise the technologist if you have or think you might have any metal implants, prostheses, aneurysm coils or clips inside your body.
Leading In-Scan Comfort
Having an MRI scan can sometimes be a daunting experience, especially for some patients who may experience claustrophobia. With this in mind, Panorama Radiology Specialists’ has invested in unique technology to maximise comfort and offer in-scan entertainment during your MRI scan.
‘QUIET SUITE’ – MRI NOISE REDUCTION TECHNOLOGY
Panorama Radiology Specialists’ 3T MRI scanner is uniquely equipped with advanced Quiet Suite noise reduction technology, which significantly reduces obtrusive in-scan noise compared with conventional 3T MRI scanners.
MRI CINEMA
Our MRI is uniquely equipped with in-scan audio-visual technology or MRI CINEMA, which allows you to relax and enjoy high-definition videos whilst undergoing your MRI scan.
NOISE DAMPENING HEADPHONES
You will be offered noise-dampening headphones to wear during your MRI scan, which allow the technologist to talk to you while enjoying MRI Cinema or listening to relaxing music.
WIDE BORE MRI
Our MRI machine is a wide-bore tunnel to maximise comfort whilst providing the highest possible image quality.
If you’re prone to claustrophobia, please let our staff know so we can ensure you’re as comfortable and relaxed as possible for your MRI scan. Our technologists can see and speak to you during your MRI scan via a closed-circuit camera to make sure you’re OK.
MRI Fees
Unfortunately the Australian Government does not allocate Medicare rebatable licences to new metropolitan MRI scanners. For this reason, Panorama charges a subsidised out of pocket fee for our MRI services in order to provide our patients with the most advanced 3T MRI technology. Standard MRI fees are around $295, however please ask our friendly team for more information about our MRI fees.
MRI Results
Our specialist radiologist doctors will analyse your MRI results following your appointment. Your results and images will be promptly electronically delivered to your referrer, mostly on the same day. Urgent results are typically telephoned through to your referrer.
You will need to return to see your referrer to discuss your results and any further management.
Our Gold Coast based radiologists are always happy to discuss MRI scan findings with your referrer, and suggest any further tests or imaging guided procedures that may be appropriate in further management in your individual clinical circumstances.