What is an MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnet in combination with pulses of radiofrequency in sequence to create images. Unlike CT and XRAY, MRI does not use radiation to create images and is considered to be safe with no known side effects.
WHOLE BODY MRI SCREENING
At Mermaid Beach Radiology, we’ve partnered with Whole Body MRI to bring you a true full-body screening scan, combining advanced full-body diffusion imaging with conventional MRI sequences. Our exclusive use of geometrically corrected diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) on our advanced 3T MRI platform, means this scan delivers exceptional image quality and accuracy, setting a new standard in full-body imaging.
Full-body MRI is already well-established in clinical settings for screening, diagnosing, and monitoring cancer, often alongside CT or PET-CT. Now, we’ve taken it a step further by offering elective scans that can detect many cancers* and other conditions before symptoms appear, giving you a proactive edge in managing your health. Click here to read more about conditions detected.
Our Whole Body MRI scan protocol now includes ultra-low dose SPECTRAL CT Chest and CT Coronary Calcium Score for better evaluation of lungs and cardiovascular health.
Speak to our friendly reception team about adding additional multi-modality imaging for a comprehensive screening examination, such as Body Composition, Bone Mineral Density and dedicated imaging of Breast, Prostate. We also offer an Executive Screening Package including 11 additional screening scans.
PROCEDURE
Our exclusive Whole Body MRI scan is a non-invasive and does not use ionising radiation. For asymptomatic individuals without a previous history of cancer, this scan does not utilise MRI contrast.
Prior to your appointment, we will ask you to complete a medical history and MRI safety questionnaire. Due to high-demand, we require pre-payment to secure your appointment.
This scan is approximately 100 minutes in duration. Please expect to be with us for 2 hours for your Whole Body MRI appointment.
During the scan, you will be able to enjoy a movie, TV show or music of your choice. While we ask that you stay as still as possible image acquisition, the exam can be stopped at any time if needed by you.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
There is no known harm from an MRI scan.
– Mild discomfort from lying on your back for an extended period.
– Claustrophobia; MBR have a wide bore MRI scanner.
WHAT IT MAY NOT SHOW
This screening MRI scan has limitations for small pulmonary nodules and detection of early cancer in the breasts, prostate, colon and skin. As with all medical imaging and procedures, this exam may not be able to detect some diseases and/or conditions. It is important to note, this is a screening examination. It is not a substitute for a dedicated scan for detailed assessment of targeted symptoms. For further information on diseases of interest, please seek advice from our MRI team prior to proceeding with your examination.
This examination may detect life-threatening diseases such as cancer and may cause emotional distress. If medically required, further high-resolution targeted scans will be performed following consultation with your General Practitioner, or another specialist Doctor. For more information on what can be detected and limitations of this scan, please visit: https://wholebodymri.com.au/our-reports
REPORTING
A radiologist report and images will be available within 7 days. In line with routine reporting practice, this report will only comment on any abnormal findings.
IMAGES
Your Whole Body MRI images will be available to you on your Mermaid Beach Radiology patient portal app within 2 business days of completing the scan. These images will also be sent to your referring practitioner.
Anonymised images may be used for research, development and/or training purposes in accordance with relevant national and state regulations.
World-Class Radiology
