3T MRI

Next-generation, radiation-free imaging with exceptional detail.

About Our 3T MRI

Research-grade 3T MRI for clearer answers.

Our research-grade, quantitative 3T MRI is one of the most advanced MRI platforms in Australia, delivering unmatched image quality and measurable, objective data. With higher field strength and powerful gradients, and next-generation AI-powered resolution software, it offers sharper images, shorter scan times, and quantitative metrics that turn radiology from subjective impressions into objective information all in a comfortable, patient-focused environment.

Research-grade quantitative 3T MRI at MBR Health Research-grade quantitative 3T MRI at MBR Health

Understanding 3T MRI

What is a 3T MRI?

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a powerful computer system to create high-resolution images of the body. Our 3 Tesla (3T) system provides superior signal and resolution compared to standard 1.5 MRI, allowing more accurate diagnosis across brain, spine, joints, and internal organs.

Why choose 3T MRI at MBR Health?

Our world-class 3T MRI offers unmatched image quality, faster and more comfortable examinations, AI-powered resolution and exclusive imaging protocols including MR Nerve Imaging and quantitative imaging such as organ volume, fat content and tissue integrity assessment. To further enhance patient comfort, our scanner is equipped with in-scan audio-visual technology, allowing you to watch movies or your favourite content during your examination. Every patient referral is protocolled in-house by an internationally recognised MRI team, ensuring every study is tailored to your physiology and clinical needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

When is MRI recommended?

MRI is the preferred modality for radiation-free detailed imaging for cross-sectional imaging of soft tissues, including organs, muscles, tendons, ligaments, as well as bony tissues such as joints, spine. Specific to MBR Health, MRI is also preferred for nerve-related conditions and certain whole-body imaging indications.

Because MRI does not use radiation, MRI may also be recommended for paediatric or pregnancy imaging.

MRI may not be the first modality choice for emergent conditions such as concussion, haemorrhage, due to relatively longer scan times compared to CT. 3T MRI is not compatible in individuals with some implants, such as pacemaker or neurostimulator.

For example, MRI at MBR Health may be recommended over other modalities for individuals who are suspected to have:

  • Headache including neuralgias
  • Brain Conditions
  • Inner Ear or Tinnitus
  • TMJ Conditions
  • Neck pain or injury
  • Low-back pain or injury
  • Spinal conditions, disc degeneration
  • Nerve pain or injury
  • Sports Injuries
  • Soft tissue injury
  • Joint assessment
  • Abdomen or Pelvic Pain
  • Liver Conditions, Fibrosis
  • Pancreas & Bile Duct Assessment
  • Full-body Imaging, including cancer staging
  • Paediatric Conditions, where radiation-free cross-sectional imaging is preferred.

Speak to your healthcare team about whether MRI is appropriate for your specific symptoms or condition before booking an examination.

What Our 3T MRI Can Detect

Our advanced 3T MRI provides enhanced imaging for the assessment of disease and injury.

Disclaimer

The information on this page is intended as general health information only and does not constitute medical advice. If you are experiencing sudden or severe symptoms including chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pain, neurological changes, or any symptoms that concern you, please seek urgent medical attention or call 000 immediately. Do not delay emergency care to arrange imaging.

MRI at MBR Health is performed following referral from a GP or specialist and is intended to complement, not replace, clinical assessment by a qualified medical practitioner. Imaging reports describe findings and observations only; diagnoses, treatment decisions, and clinical management are made by your treating practitioner in the context of your full clinical history and individual circumstances. Due to the strong magnetic field, MRI is not suitable for all patients.

It is essential that you inform our team prior to your appointment if you have a pacemaker or implantable cardiac device, cochlear implant, metal fragments in your eyes, certain surgical clips or implants, or any other metallic or electronic device in your body. Please also inform our team if you are pregnant or believe you may be pregnant, are claustrophobic, or have impaired kidney function if contrast is anticipated.

  • Brain & Spine
  • Abdomen & Pelvis
  • Cardiac
  • Breast 
  • Joints & Skeleton
  • Nerve Imaging
  • Metabolic Health
  • Oncology & Cancer Staging
  • Preventative Screening
  • Paediatric & Foetal MRI
Our 3T MRI Team Ben Kennedy, Director of MRI & Clinical Research

Our 3T MRI Team

Advanced imaging requires advanced expertise.

MBR Health’s 3T MRI service is led by Mr Ben Kennedy, Director of MRI and Clinical Research, and supported by a team of senior MRI radiographers based on the Gold Coast, Queensland. Our MRI team brings internationally recognised expertise in advanced protocol development, quantitative imaging and MR nerve imaging — ensuring every scan is protocolled and performed to the highest diagnostic standard. All studies are reported by Dr Zane Sherif and our specialist radiologists, combining deep clinical expertise with access to one of Australia’s most advanced MRI platforms.

Meet Our Team

What to Expect

The process to expect during your scan.

1 before

Before you arrive

All patients are asked to fast for a minimum of two hours prior to their scan. Some studies require a longer fasting period and our team will advise you of your specific requirements when booking.

You will be asked to remove metal objects and change into a gown. For certain scans, we may recommend a IV contrast injection, which is safe for most patients. Our team will review your medical history before your scan, particularly if you have kidney disease or a history of allergic reactions. If you experience claustrophobia, please let us know in advance so we can discuss your options, including possible mild oral sedation (e.g. Valium) with your referring doctor.

2 during

During your scan

You will lie on a motorised bed that moves into the scanner. Our MRI team will monitor you at all times and communicate via a two-way intercom. You will be provided a hand-held buzzer to alert the imaging team, or stop the scan for any reason.

Most routine diagnostic scans take between 15–60 minutes; however, some scans such as whole-body MRI can take over 90 minutes. During your scan the MRI produces a rhythmic tapping sound. You will be provided with headphones or earplugs and are welcome to listen to music or stream movies and TV shows using our specialised in-scan audio-visual platform.

3 after

After your scan

You can resume normal activities immediately. If contrast was used, you may be observed briefly to ensure you feel well. If oral sedation was given (e.g. Valium), you’ll need a support person to accompany and drive you home.

In most cases your results will be available within 48 to 72 hours. Your report and images will be sent directly to your referring doctor by fax or e-delivery, and will also be accessible through the MBR Health patient portal within the same timeframe. Some studies may take longer to report and can take up to 5 to 7 business days. Please let our team know if you require your results sooner and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Common Questions from Patients

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 3T MRI safe?

Yes. MRI is considered one of the safest imaging modalities because it uses no ionising radiation. The main safety considerations relate to implanted metal devices, which our safety team will carefully assess. Mild side effects from contrast, such as headache or nausea, are rare and usually short-lived.

Is an MRI covered by Medicare?

Some MRI services in Australia attract Medicare rebates, but our advanced 3T MRI technology is not fully covered due to licensing restrictions. Scans at MBR are privately billed, allowing us to provide research-grade imaging with more sequences and higher resolution.

Are MRI scans bulk billed?

No. Bulk-billed MRI providers must work within strict Medicare limitations. MBR Health offers privately funded, research-grade imaging designed to deliver diagnostic accuracy the first time, reducing the need for repeat scans and shortening wait times.

Do I need a referral for an MRI scan in Australia?

Yes. A referral from a GP or specialist is required for all MRI scans. This ensures the study is clinically appropriate and tailored to your needs.

When will I get my MRI results?

Most results are sent to your doctor within 2–3 business days, though some sub-specialty studies (such as breast or cardiac MRI) may take slightly longer. Urgent cases are prioritised, and patients can access reports and images via the secure MBR Patient Portal.

What are bespoke MRI options?

In selected cases, we offer bespoke applications such as functional MRI (fMRI) and other research-grade protocols. These are available following an appropriate referral and consultation with our lead MRI technologist to ensure the protocol is tailored to your clinical or research requirements.

What is the difference between MRI and CT?

Spectral CT uses different energy levels to better differentiate tissues, improve contrast resolution and sometimes reduce the amount of iodine contrast needed. CT does involve ionising radiation, but our advanced scanner uses very low doses whenever possible. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of soft tissues, organs, joints and the nervous system. MRI does not use radiation and is particularly useful for detecting subtle abnormalities.

What is the difference between iodine and gadolinium contrast?

Iodine contrast is used in CT scans and is injected to highlight blood vessels, organs and tissues. Patients with iodine allergies or certain kidney conditions may need special precautions. Gadolinium is used in MRI scans to improve visibility of tissues, blood flow or inflammation. It is generally well-tolerated and considered very safe when used appropriately.

How long will my MRI take?

MRI scans generally range in time from 30 minutes to 2 hours. A standard MSK MRI will take approximately 30 minutes per region – Nerveview, dynamic or other speicalised imaging will require additional time. Whole Body MRI imaging is typically 90 minutes to 100 minutes. You typically cannot reduce the time without compromising the image quality or diagnostic information.

What is functional MRI?

Functional MRI uses specialised MRI sequences to assess how tissues behave, not just how they look. It may help evaluate brain activity, tissue cellularity, blood flow or other physiological features, depending on the clinical question. At MBR Health, functional MRI may be used when advanced insight is needed beyond standard anatomical imaging.

What is dynamic MRI?

Dynamic MRI captures movement or change over time, rather than only producing still images. It may be useful when symptoms relate to motion, positioning or functional behaviour that is not fully explained on a standard scan. At MBR Health, dynamic MRI is used selectively to help clarify diagnosis and guide care.

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Journal Publications

Published research from MBR Health.

Selected peer-reviewed publications and clinical case reports from the MBR Health research and diagnostic innovation program.
Non-Surgical ACL Repair in 65yo 2026
MRI-Documented Re-continuity of a Complete Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture After Delayed Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment in a 65-Year-Old Male: A Case Report
CT-guided Intradiscal PRP 2026
Intradiscal Platelet-Rich Plasma Delivery Via Modified Transdural Interlaminar Computed Tomography-Guided Access in Severe L5-S1 Disc Collapse: A Technical Case Report.
Contrast-enhanced US Hip PRP 2026
Novel Use of Ultrasound (US) Arthrogram to Increase Robustness of Payload Delivery of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in the Hip Joint
Non-surgical ACL Repair PRP 2026
Case Study of Rapid Recovery of a Complete Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Rupture Through Orthobiologic-Driven Regeneration: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Validation
Nebulized platelet-rich plasma 2026
Nebulized platelet-rich plasma facilitates resolution of post-infective pulmonary consolidation and cavitation in a lung cancer survivor.
Read All Publications

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