MRI of the Brain & Nervous System
Brain and neurological MRI at Epoch Medical Imaging, St Ives. Radiation-free, high-resolution imaging in our wide-bore scanner. Serving the North Shore — Turramurra, Gordon, Pymble & surrounds. Book today.
What Conditions Can a Brain MRI Detect?
MRI is the most sensitive imaging investigation available for the brain and nervous system. Because it uses magnetic fields rather than radiation, it produces exceptional contrast between grey matter, white matter and cerebrospinal fluid — revealing changes that are simply not visible on other imaging.
A brain and neurological MRI is used to assess:
- Multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating conditions, including small lesions in the white matter
- Brain tumours — both primary and secondary — and their relationship to surrounding structures
- Stroke, including small or early ischaemic changes
- Pituitary gland abnormalities
- Acoustic neuromas and other lesions of the inner ear and skull base
- Structural causes of epilepsy and seizures
- Changes associated with memory loss and cognitive decline
- Persistent headache, dizziness, visual disturbance or unexplained neurological symptoms
At Epoch Medical Imaging in St Ives Shopping Village, every brain MRI is reported by a specialist radiologist with results sent directly to your referring doctor.
Brain MRI or CT: Which Does My Doctor Need?
Both investigations are valuable, and they answer different clinical questions. Understanding the difference helps explain why your doctor has recommended one over the other.
How they compare:
- CT is faster and is usually the first-line investigation in acute head trauma or suspected bleeding
- MRI provides far greater soft tissue detail of the brain, brainstem, cranial nerves and spinal cord
- MRI involves no ionising radiation, making it well suited to younger patients and repeat monitoring
- MRI is the preferred investigation for multiple sclerosis, pituitary conditions, posterior fossa lesions and tumour follow-up
- Some brain MRI studies include a gadolinium contrast injection to improve visibility of tumours and areas of inflammation
Both CT and MRI are available at Epoch Medical Imaging, St Ives Shopping Village, so your care is not delayed if further imaging is recommended.
Safety, Comfort & What to Expect
MRI is a safe, painless investigation, and our wide-bore scanner is designed to make the experience as comfortable as possible — particularly for patients who feel anxious in enclosed spaces.
Before your appointment:
- You will complete an MRI safety questionnaire covering any metal implants, pacemakers, surgical clips or previous surgery.
- In some cases we may need additional information from your surgeon or doctor before it is safe to proceed.
- No fasting is required for most brain MRI scans — you will be advised at the time of booking if this applies to you.
On the day:
- You will be asked to change into a gown and remove all jewellery.
- The scan takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes depending on the sequences required.
- You will hear loud rhythmic knocking and tapping sounds — earplugs and headphones are provided for your comfort.
- Lying as still as possible throughout the scan gives the sharpest images.
- If gadolinium contrast is required, it is given through a small cannula in the arm. Unlike CT contrast, it does not cause a warm flush.
Your images are reviewed by our specialist radiologist and a detailed report is sent to your referring doctor, typically within three days. To book at Epoch Medical Imaging, St Ives Shopping Village, call (02) 9129 6999.
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Have a question or ready to book? Our friendly team is here to help with appointments, referrals and any imaging enquiries you may have.
Working Hours
Monday - Wednesday, Friday 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Thursday - 08:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Saturday - 08:30 AM - 1:00 PM