MRI scan Johannesburg: what to expect
Last updated October 2026
What is an MRI scan?
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves, not ionising radiation, to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is especially good at showing soft tissue.
At the Centre of Advanced Medicine in Waverley, Johannesburg, every MRI is performed on the Siemens MAGNETOM FreeMax and personally reported by our team of specialist diagnostic radiologists.
Wide-bore MRI compared with a standard MRI
The bore is the tunnel you lie in. A wider bore means more space around you, which many patients find far more comfortable.
| Standard MRI | Our wide-bore FreeMax | |
|---|---|---|
| Bore opening | 60 to 70cm | 80cm |
| How it feels | Often described as confined | Described by patients as open |
| Table limit | Standard | Approximately double the standard |
| Claustrophobic patients | Scans are often abandoned | Open bore, shorter protocols, calming room |
| Room | Clinical | Colour-lit: choose red, blue, green, orange or pink |
| Reporting | Varies | Every scan reported by a specialist radiologist |
Our FreeMax is a wide-bore scanner, not an open-sided one. Patients consistently describe the 80cm bore as open rather than confined.
What can an MRI scan show?
MRI is used for the brain, spine, joints, abdomen and other soft tissue. Joints such as the knee and shoulder, and the discs and nerves of the spine, are common examples. Your referring doctor decides which area to scan based on your symptoms.
MRI for claustrophobic patients
If you have avoided an MRI before because of claustrophobia, a bad experience or your body size, this scanner was built for you. Here is what helps:
- An 80cm bore that feels open rather than confined
- Shortened scan protocols and AI-assisted acquisition, so less time in the bore
- A calming colour-lit room, with a colour you choose
- A team that prepares for your anxiety. Tell us when you book.
MRI for larger patients
The FreeMax table limit is approximately double the standard. All body types are accommodated comfortably and with dignity. We do not turn patients away.
MRI safety: implants, pacemakers and metal
MRI does not use ionising radiation and is suitable for repeat examinations. The magnet does mean you must tell us before your appointment about:
- A pacemaker or other implanted device
- Metal implants, clips or fragments
- Any previous surgery involving metal
Whether you can be scanned depends on the specific device. Our team will check with you before your scan.
Medical aid and referrals
We submit your MRI to your medical aid, and our team handles authorisation. A referral is recommended and is required for medical aid purposes. Self-referred patients are also accepted. Call 011 440 7877 to discuss your scan and get a quote.
Visit us in Waverley, Johannesburg
We are at 13 Scott Street, Waverley, Johannesburg, 2090, serving patients from Linksfield, Sandton, Rosebank, Randburg, Edenvale and across Johannesburg.
Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 5 pm. We are closed on Saturday and Sunday.
