Patient having a PET scanPatient having a PET scanPatient having a PET scan

Clinics & services

X-ray, MRI & ultrasound scans

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans use a magnetic field and radio waves to take pictures inside the body.

What to expect

MRI is a painless imaging scan. Your scan will usually take between 20 and 60 minutes.

We will ask you to fill in an MRI safety checklist and bring it to your appointment. You do not need to do anything else to prepare for your scan.

The MRI Scanner is a cylinder open at both ends. It looks a bit like a donut.

You will hear a variety of thumping, whirring and loud knocking noises while you are in the scanner. This is normal and nothing to worry about.

We will talk with you periodically during the scan via the intercom, and will let you know how long each part of your scan will take.

You will need to lie still during the exam to allow the technologist to get the best pictures. If this will be difficult, please tell your doctor before your appointment. If you feel the need to move during your scan, please check with us before you move.

Some MRI examinations require an injection of a special intravenous contrast or dye. 

What to bring

When you come to hospital for your appointment, you need to bring:

  • Your completed safety questionnaire
  • Medicare card
  • Health care card/concession card (if applicable)
  • Private health insurance details (if applicable/if you want to use it)
  • Adverse drug alert card (if you have one)
  • X-ray films, scans, ultrasounds or any other test results or reports
  • Medicines you need to take while you are here
  • List of medicines you are currently taking (or the boxes) including herbal supplements and vitamins
  • Glasses, hearing aid, walking frame (if applicable)
  • Your blood glucose meter and log book (if applicable)

What to leave at home:

  • Jewellery
  • Anything metal
  • Other valuables

Contact us

Radiology

Radiology reception - Austin Hospital
Phone: 03 9496 5431

MRI bookings
Phone: 03 9496 3463

Email: enquiries.radiology@austin.org.au

Open hours: 7am-10:30pm weekdays and 8am-4:30pm weekends

Reception is unattended after hours (weekday evenings and weekends). Press the doorbell located to the left of the Radiology Reception desk to notify staff you have arrived. A staff member will attend to you as soon as they can.

Closed on public holidays.

Location

Department of Radiology
Level 2, Lance Townsend Building
Austin Hospital
145 Studley Road,
Heidelberg Victoria