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MRI Scans in Bankstown

An MRI scan looks inside the body using a strong magnetic field and radio waves, not radiation. It captures remarkably clear images of soft tissue, organs, joints and the spine, often showing detail that X-Ray and CT cannot.

At Bankstown Lidcombe Medical Imaging, every MRI is performed by an accredited MRI technologist and reported by a specialist radiologist. Most scans take 20-60 minutes, depending on the area examined.

Preparing for your MRI

  • Wear comfortable clothing without metal fasteners, and leave jewellery and watches at home
  • For a head scan, skip eye make-up and hair products – some contain fine metal particles
  • For an abdominal MRI, fast for four hours beforehand
  • Tell us in advance if you find small spaces difficult – your doctor can arrange a mild sedative

Safety screening

Because the scanner uses a powerful magnet, you’ll complete a safety questionnaire on arrival. This checks for anything that may not be MRI-safe, such as a pacemaker, cochlear implant, infusion pump or aneurysm clip. If you’ve worked with metal (welding or grinding), you may need a quick eye X-Ray first. Please let us know if you are, or might be, pregnant – MRI is generally avoided in the first trimester.

FAQs

Yes. All MRI’s require an appointment. Simply call our clinic or send through your referral via our appointment request form, and our friendly Booking Team will arrange a convenient appointment and provide any preparation instructions you may need before your visit.

During your MRI, you’ll lie comfortably on a padded table that moves into the scanner, which is open at both ends and well lit. The scanner produces loud tapping and knocking sounds while images are being taken, so we’ll provide earplugs or headphones for your comfort. You’ll be able to communicate with your technologist throughout the examination via a two-way intercom, and a call button is always available if you need assistance. Remaining as still as possible helps us produce the clearest images.

Some MRI examinations require a contrast injection (gadolinium) to provide more detailed images of certain organs and tissues. If contrast is needed, it will be administered through a small cannula placed in your arm. Our team will explain the procedure beforehand and discuss any medical conditions, including kidney concerns, to ensure the examination is appropriate for you.

No. MRI is a painless examination. Some people may feel slightly warm during the scan or find it uncomfortable to remain still for an extended period. If you feel uncomfortable at any stage, simply let your technologist know—they’re there to help and can pause the examination if needed.

Many MRI examinations are Medicare eligible and may be bulk billed. If your examination incurs an out-of-pocket expense, our Booking Team will advise you when your appointment is arranged, so you’ll know exactly what to expect before your visit.

Your MRI images will be reviewed by one of our Specialist Radiologists, and a report is typically sent to your referring healthcare provider within one to two working days. If your examination is clinically urgent, it will be prioritised to ensure your doctor receives the results as soon as possible.