MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Detailed, non-invasive imaging to help diagnose and guide your care.

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan is a safe and non-invasive imaging test that uses strong magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of your body.

These images are converted into grayscale, which allows doctors to detect differences between normal and abnormal tissue. Compared to other imaging devices, MRI scans provide an exceptional level of soft tissue detail.

MRI scans are commonly used to examine the brain, spine, joints, muscles, and internal organs, helping your doctor diagnose and monitor a wide range of conditions.

Breast MRI

Breast MRI provides detailed images of internal and soft tissue structures of the breast,

MRI Angiography

MRI imaging technique both with and without contrast, to visualize blood vessels in the body

MRI Arthrogram

MRI Breast

Breast MRI provides detailed images of internal and soft tissue structures of the breast,

MRI Breast Biopsy

MR Enterography

Produce detailed images of the small intestine

Cardiac MRI

Cardiac MR is a non-invasive imaging technique used to assess the structure and function of the heart and its surrounding blood vessels.

MRI caravan located in Kerikeri Clinic

What are MRI scans used for?

An MRI scan is particularly useful for assessing the head and spine, abdomen and pelvis, breast and for joint and musculoskeletal problems.

An MRI scan requires specialised equipment and expertise, and allows evaluation of body structures that may not be visible with other imaging methods.

The appointment generally takes between 30-60 minutes.

Why might I need an MRI scan?

Your doctor may refer you for an MRI scan to:

Investigate pain, injury, or swelling
Diagnose neurological conditions
Assess joints, muscles, or ligaments
Examine organs such as the brain, spine, or abdomen
Monitor treatment or disease progression

What to expect during your MRI scan?

During your scan:

You will lie comfortably on a scanning table
The table will move into the MRI scanner
You will need to lie still while images are taken
You may hear loud tapping or knocking sounds during the scan
The scan is painless, and our team will support you throughout the process

Before your Examination

Please phone us for an appointment. We will discuss:

Details about your preparation before the scan including a period without food and drink.
A list of safety issues including if you are pregnant, have a pacemaker, surgical clips, heart valves, prosthetic joints and the need to take your pain medication before you arrive. Click here to complete a Safety Checklist. It will automatically be sent to our MRI booking team
Details about the examination itself
ACC and insurance queries
Post examination information

Please let us know as soon as possible if there is any reason why you cannot keep your appointment.

Upon arrival:

You will have time to read about the examination, fill out a questionnaire as well as consent forms. In addition to a drink, insertion of an intravenous line may be necessary before your scan. A trained, experienced staff member will discuss the procedure with you. This is a good opportunity to ask any question you may have.

You will be asked to change into a gown and remove all metallic objects such as jewellery, dentures, hearing aids, etc.

Your Examination

If needed, you will have an intravenous line inserted. Our staff will position you on a bed that will gently move through the scanner, stopping to scan relevant areas. You will be asked to remain still throughout each of the 4-5 separate scans for up to twenty minutes. If you have difficulty lying flat, or are uncomfortable in confined spaces, the MRI staff will assist and make you more comfortable.

The Medical Radiation Technologist (MRT) or Radiographer will talk to you via a two-way intercom during the scan and let you know what is happening throughout. You can talk to the MRT at any time, even during the scan if you need to. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. The MRI machine makes a loud tapping noise while scanning (from the MRI coil movement) however you will be able to listen to music during the scan.

FAQs

Your appointment generally takes between 30-60 minutes, depending on the area being scanned.

If you feel anxious or claustrophobic, please let our team know, we can talk you through your options to help make your experience as comfortable as possible.

Preparation will depend on the type of scan you are having.

You may be asked to:

Wear clothing without metal (zips, buttons, jewellery)
Avoid eating or drinking before certain scans
Remove any metal objects

You will receive specific instructions before you appointment.

MRI is considered very safe for most people.

However, it is important to tell us if you have:

Metal implants or medical devices
A pacemaker
Any metal fragments in your body
A possibility of pregnancy

Our team will ensure the scan is safe and suitable for you.

You are welcome to bring a family member or friend to your appointment. They can stay with you while we discuss your procedure.

Support people are not permitted in the procedure room and will be asked to wait outside during the scan.

If you are attending with young children, please bring someone with you to supervise them during your appointment.

Please let our team know before your appointment if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.

This helps us ensure the safest imaging approach for both you and your baby.

MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRI services and procedures we offer...

What are MRI scans used for?

Why might I need an MRI scan?

What to expect during your MRI scan?

Where can I get an MRI done?

MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRI services and procedures we offer...

What are MRI scans used for?

Why might I need an MRI scan?

What to expect during your MRI scan?

Where can I get an MRI done?

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