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Advicon Imaging MRI Services:

Advicon Imaging is a diagnostic imaging provider offering MRI services across a wide range of body areas and clinical needs in Sydney, each performed using the same safe, radiation-free technology. MRI can be used to investigate concerns across different body areas, including the brain, joints, and abdomen.

These MRI services span musculoskeletal and body imaging, with each scan performed at an Advicon Imaging clinic using modern MRI equipment.

Description of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create cross-sectional and three-dimensional images of your body, helping to assess internal structures and conditions. Unlike X-ray or CT scans, MRI does not use ionising radiation. This makes it a safe option for repeated imaging and long-term monitoring.

MRI is commonly used to evaluate a range of concerns, from knee injuries to brain issues, including:

  • Brain and neurological symptoms
  • Spine and nerve conditions
  • Musculoskeletal injuries (tendons, ligaments, cartilage, joints)
  • Abdominal and pelvic organs (liver, kidneys, bowel, uterus, prostate)
  • The heart and blood vessels
  • Tumours, infections, inflammation, and complex diseases

MRI provides exceptional clarity of:

    • Soft tissues
    • Muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage
    • Nerves and the spinal cord
    • Organs and internal structures
    • Blood vessels (using MRA techniques)

A qualified MRI technologist performs every scan, and an experienced radiologist reviews it, so you can be confident in the accuracy of your results. Advicon's modern MRI equipment is designed to reduce noise and improve comfort during your scan — earplugs are provided throughout — while still delivering fast, high-resolution imaging. For some scans, a gadolinium contrast medium may be injected into a vein to provide clearer images.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare for a MRI?

Before your appointment:

  • Confirm your booking in advance
  • Bring your referral and Medicare card
  • Bring any previous X-ray, CT, ultrasound, or MRI studies

On the day:

  • Remove all metal (keys, jewellery, credit cards, hairpins, piercings, watches)
  • Avoid makeup and hairspray (may contain metallic particles)
  • Wear loose clothing without metal zips or bring a change of clothes
  • You may be asked to complete a safety questionnaire

Important — tell staff if you have:

  • Pacemakers or cardiac implants
  • Cochlear implants
  • Surgical clips or aneurysm clips
  • Neurostimulators
  • Metal fragments in the eye
  • Insulin pumps or drug infusion devices
  • Magnetic dental implants

Other considerations:

  • Some scans require fasting (you'll be advised if needed)
  • Notify staff if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • If claustrophobic, sedation can be arranged — please organise a support person to drive you home

What happens during the MRI scan?

During your scan, here's what to expect:

  • You may be asked to change into a gown
  • You will lie on a padded table that moves into the MRI scanner
  • A buzzer will be given to you to alert staff at any time
  • Earplugs or headphones are provided because MRI is noisy
  • The scan consists of several sequences, each lasting 30 seconds to a few minutes
  • It is important to remain still to ensure clear images
  • Some scans require brief breath-holding to keep images clear

What is a contrast injection?

Some MRI exams use an IV contrast agent (gadolinium) to highlight blood vessels, inflammation, or abnormal tissue. Contrast is generally very safe, let staff know if you have kidney issues or a history of contrast reactions.

How long does a MRI scan go for?

Most MRI scans take 15–30 minutes, though more specialised studies may take 40–60 minutes. You can usually go home straight after the scan unless sedation was used.

Is an MRI scan safe?

Yes, MRIs are considered safe. MRI does not use ionising radiation, and there are no known long-term side effects when proper safety screening is completed. Risks mainly relate to metal implants interacting with the magnet, rare allergic reactions to contrast, or claustrophobia.

What are the benefits of MRI compared to other scans?X-ray

Unlike X-ray or CT, MRI uses no radiation and provides exceptional clarity of soft tissues, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels, making it well suited to long-term monitoring and highly accurate diagnosis.

What can an MRI scan be used to check?

MRI is commonly used to evaluate the brain and neurological symptoms, spine and nerve conditions, musculoskeletal injuries, abdominal and pelvic organs, the heart and blood vessels, and tumours, infections, or inflammation.

Is MRI safe for children? 

Yes. MRI is radiation-free and considered safe for children as well as for long-term monitoring.

Who performs and interprets my MRI scan? 

Your scan is performed by a qualified MRI technologist and interpreted by an experienced radiologist.

Risks and Safety

MRI is extremely safe when proper screening is completed, with no known long-term side effects.

Risks are mainly related to:

  • Metal objects and implants interacting with the powerful magnetic field
  • Rare allergic reactions to contrast
  • Claustrophobia

Screening is essential because unsecured metal objects can be pulled toward the magnet with significant force, which is why staff carefully check for implants and metal objects before every scan.

With careful screening beforehand, these risks are well managed for the vast majority of patients — and the benefits of MRI make it one of the most valuable diagnostic tools available.

Benefits of MRI

  • No radiation
  • Exceptional soft-tissue imaging
  • Safe for children and long-term monitoring
  • Highly accurate diagnostic information
  • Ability to image almost any part of the body in any direction
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