MRI Scans Explained
What is an MRI scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scanning is a medical investigation that uses an exceptionally strong magnet and radio frequency waves to generate image of your body.
Why would I need an MRI scan?
An MRI scan is one of the most sophisticated diagnostic tools available to help a referring clinician understand the cause of your particular health issue.
What can be diagnosed by an MRI scan?
By scanning the relevant sector(s) of a patient’s body, an MRI scan can help to diagnose the following:
- most ailments of the brain, including tumours and dementias
- sports injuries
- musculoskeletal problems
- most spinal conditions/injuries
- vascular abnormalities
- female pelvic problems
- prostate problems
- some gastrointestinal tract conditions
- certain ear, nose and throat (ENT) conditions
- soft tissue and bone pathology/conditions
Who can’t have an MRI scan?
Due to the powerful magnetic force involved in producing an MRI scan, certain individuals will not be scanned. You must not have an MRI scan if you have:
- a cardiac (heart) pacemaker
- certain clips in your head from brain operations, i.e. aneurysm clips
- a cochlear (ear) implant
- a metallic foreign body in your eye
- had surgery in the last 8 weeks
- a programmable shunt for hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain)
- if you are pregnant
Please call 0845 450 3559 for more details.
