What is 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
Mermaid Beach Radiology whole-body MRI is a world-class examination that uses a combination of whole-body diffusion and conventional sequences. With our latest development on the most advanced equipment available*, the quality and accuracy of this examination has vastly exceeded the imaging standards in the field of radiology world-wide.
In routine clinical settings, whole-body MRI is commonly used to screen for, diagnose and monitor cancer and is regularly validated with other scan-types such as computed topography (CT) and/or PET-CT.
Elective whole-body magnetic resonance (MR) screening is a comprehensive examination for individuals who seek a baseline assessment of their health and to detect diseases before symptoms develop. This examination is able to detect cancer* and other health conditions that may, or may not, require further medical evaluation.

PROCEDURE
Whole Body MRI for screening purposes does not routinely use MRI contrast.
The appointment time is two hours, with an expected scan time of 100 minutes.
During your scan, you will be able to watch your favourite movie or TV show on Netflix or relax to your music of your choice. The exam can be stopped at any time if needed by you.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
For individuals deemed safe to enter the MRI room, there is no known harm from an MRI scan. MRI does not use harmful ionising radiation.
You may experience mild discomfort from lying on your back for an extended period.
Some individuals may have feelings of claustrophobia. Mermaid Beach Radiology have a wide bore MRI scanner with an excellent in-scan experience including special goggles which allow you to watch your favourite movie or TV show during the scan.
WHAT IT MAY NOT SHOW
This screening MRI scan has limitations for small pulmonary nodules and detection of early cancer in the breasts/prostate and is not the test of choice to exclude aneurysm. As with all medical imaging and procedures, this exam may not be able to detect some diseases and/or conditions. In addition, this is a screening examination and 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 specialist radiologist 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.
REPORTING
A radiologist report and images will be available within seven days. In line with routine reporting practice, this report will only comment on any abnormal findings.
IMAGES
Anonymised images may be used for research, development and/or training purposes in accordance with relevant national and state regulations.