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What is MRI?
When you undergo an MRI, you lie down on a table that slides into a large tube-like machine. This machine contains a strong magnet. When the magnet is turned on, it aligns the tiny particles called protons in your body’s cells. Then, radio waves are sent into your body, causing the aligned protons to emit signals. These signals are detected by a receiver in the MRI machine, which creates a detailed picture of the area being examined.
The resulting images can show different types of tissues in your body, such as organs, muscles, bones, and blood vessels. MRI is particularly useful for visualising soft tissues like the brain, spinal cord, and joints.
MRI is a safe and painless procedure that helps doctors diagnose various medical conditions and plan appropriate treatments. It doesn’t use any radiation, unlike X-rays or CT scans. However, it’s important to let your doctor know if you have any metal implants or devices in your body, as they may interfere with the MRI process.
What do we scan?
At Mātai, we have state-of-the-art MRI technology and a team of skilled medical professionals to ensure accurate interpretation of your scans. Our friendly staff will guide you through the process, answering any questions you may have and ensuring your comfort throughout the examination.
Please note that the specific scans performed may vary based on your individual medical needs. Body parts we scan are shown when you hover over the affected area to the right. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate type of MRI scan for your condition.
If you have any further questions or would like to schedule an MRI scan, please contact us to speak with our staff. We are dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care using advanced imaging technology.
State-of-the-art technology
We are proud to utilise the cutting-edge technology of the GE Healthcare 3 Tesla MRI machine. With its advanced capabilities, this state-of-the-art system enables us to capture highly detailed and precise images for diagnostic purposes. The 3 Tesla magnetic field strength provides enhanced image quality, allowing our team of researchers and healthcare professionals to visualise even the subtlest anatomical structures and abnormalities. This high-performance MRI machine, combined with our skilled experts, ensures that we deliver accurate and comprehensive results for the benefit of our patients and the advancement of medical research.
Also known as our Lamborghini.
Important Information
For certain patients, it may not be possible to undergo an MRI scan due to the powerful magnetic field of the scanner. If you have a cardiac pacemaker, cochlear implants, metal fragments in your eye, or surgical clips on blood vessels in your brain, please get in touch with us immediately. We will provide you with further guidance and assess your eligibility for an MRI scan, ensuring your safety and well-being throughout the process.
For your MRI appointment, kindly ensure the removal of the following metallic items:
– Zippers
– Underwire bras
– Hearing aids
– Watches
– Jewellery
– Hair clips
FAQs
How long will my scan take?
Your scan will take on average 30 minutes but may take between 10 minutes and two hours depending on what images are needed. Before the scan begins, your technologist will tell you how long it takes, so you know what to expect.
What if I am claustrophobic?
If you think you might suffer from claustrophobia, please let us know beforehand so we can provide techniques to keep you comfortable during your scan. Occasionally a calming medication (sedative) may be required to help you complete your scan. We advise that this is prescribed by your GP.
What is contrast?
Contrast is an agent that may be administered intravenously at the time of your examination to enhance the visualisation of the area under examination.
Does an MRI use radiation?
No, an MRI does not use ionising radiation. Unlike other imaging techniques such as X-rays or CT scans, which utilise ionising radiation to create images, MRI works by using a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images of the body’s internal structures. This makes MRI a safe imaging modality in terms of radiation exposure.
Can I eat and drink before my scan?
Depending on the type of MRI you are getting, you may need to fast (no eating or drinking for two hours prior to scan time). Our team will notify you if fasting is required.
Can I have an MRI if I have a metallic implant or device?
It depends on the type of implant or device you have. Some metallic implants are safe for MRI, while others may pose risks. It is important to inform us about any implants, devices, or foreign bodies in your body to determine if an MRI is safe for you.
Will the MRI scan be uncomfortable or painful?
MRI scans are generally painless. However, some people may experience temporary discomfort due to remaining still during the scan or the noise generated by the machine. Earplugs or headphones with music may be provided to help with the noise.
Can I have a support person accompany me?
A support person may accompany you to your appointment but we do not routinely take extra people into the scan room for safety reasons. Should you have concerns around this please discuss when booking your appointment.
Can I bring my children?
Due to the nature of an MRI scan and the time it takes, it is best that children do not accompany you for your appointment unless you have someone to supervise them whilst you’re being scanned.
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466 Childers Road
Gisborne, 4010
New Zealand
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