MRI scan

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a safe and painless medical test for both adults and children that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body. It helps doctors view your organs, tissues, and bones in detail, allowing them to diagnose and monitor various health conditions.

The duration of the MRI scan varies based on the area being examined, typically lasting between 15 and 90 minutes. MRI scans are performed by specially trained Radiographers.

What can an MRI scan diagnose?

MRI scans can diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions, including:

• Neurological issues: MRIs can help diagnose conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles, such as brain tumours and growths, brain injuries, multiple sclerosis (MS), aneurysms and spinal cord disorders (including herniated discs and tumours).
• Musculoskeletal issues: An MRI scan is useful in diagnosing musculoskeletal problems and injuries as it shows detailed images of bones, joints, soft tissue and muscles that X-rays and CT scans may not capture as clearly. An MRI can diagnose joint problems, torn ligaments or cartilage, bone tumours, arthritis and fractures.
• Cardiovascular conditions: An MRI scan can help diagnose cardiovascular conditions by providing detailed images of the heart, blood vessels, and surrounding tissues. An MRI can detect heart disease, heart defects, damage caused by a heart attack, aortic aneurysms and blockages in blood vessels.
• Cancer: An MRI can reveal abnormal growths, tumours and enlarged lymph nodes. It can help to tell if the tumour is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Additionally, it helps identify the stage of cancer and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
• Vascular conditions: An MRI can produce detailed images of blood vessels (arteries, veins, and capillaries) to help diagnose blood clots and atherosclerosis (a condition where plaque buildup causes the arteries to harden and narrow). It can also measure blood flow (identifying areas where blood flow is restricted) and reveal abnormalities in blood vessels.
• Internal organ injuries and diseases: An MRI can help diagnose injuries, inflammation and diseases affecting the lungs, liver, kidney, pancreas, intestines and reproductive organs.
• Monitoring chronic conditions: For some conditions, such as cancer, an MRI can help track the progress and response to treatment.

Do I need an MRI scan?

Your doctor may refer you for an MRI if they need more detailed information about your health condition that other tests, such as X-rays or ultrasounds, cannot provide.

You might need an MRI if you have:

• Unexplained pain: Persistent pain, such as back pain or chronic headaches
• Suspected tumours or cancer
• Neurological symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, weakness or dizziness
• Joint or muscle injuries
• Chronic condition: Ongoing monitoring of diseases such as heart disease, cancer and multiple sclerosis
• Cardiovascular symptoms, such as shortness of breath or irregular heartbeats
• Suspected internal organ issues, with symptoms such as abdominal pain or digestive issues
• Abnormal test results - If previous tests, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or blood tests, show something unusual, an MRI may be recommended.

Where to get an MRI scan

To find your Nuffield Health hospital offering an MRI scan, please click here. With over 35 locations across the UK, you're sure to find a facility near you.

How can I book an MRI?

To book an MRI, you will need a referral from a healthcare professional.

If you have an outpatient consultation with a Nuffield Health consultant, they will refer you for a scan if clinically appropriate.

If you have a referral from an external consultant, simply email it to your chosen Nuffield Health hospital, and a team member will call you back.

Can I get a private MRI scan at Nuffield Health without a referral?

No, you will need a referral from a healthcare professional.

How much does a private MRI cost?

Click here and select your local Nuffield Health hospital to find the guide prices of our scans, including MRI scans. Please note that we can only provide a guide price until your referral has been reviewed by one of our radiography professionals.

Preparing for an MRI

• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing without any metal objects, such as zippers, snaps or metal threads woven into your clothing to your appointment. Remove any metal items from your body such as jewellery, watches, or piercings, before the scan. The MRI machine uses powerful magnets, so it is essential to avoid metal near the machine. You may be asked to change into a gown or other suitable clothing before your scan.
• Food and drink: You can usually eat and drink as usual before the MRI scan unless you are given specific instructions otherwise.
• Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking. In most cases, you can continue taking them as usual, but it is essential to provide a complete list to your healthcare team.
• Inform your doctor: Let your doctor know if you have any metal implants, pacemakers, or other medical devices, as some of these may not be compatible with the MRI scanner.
• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or think you might be, please inform your doctor. In some cases, MRI may not be recommended during pregnancy, especially in the early stages.
• Questions: If you have any questions or concerns about the MRI procedure, please do not hesitate to ask your healthcare team. They are there to help and ensure your comfort throughout the process.

What happens during an MRI?

1. Getting Ready: You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any metal objects such as jewellery, watches, or hairpins. If needed, a contrast dye may be injected into your veins to enhance the images obtained.
2. Positioning: You will lie down on a special table, and the Radiographer will help you get into the right position for the scan. It is essential to remain still during the procedure to ensure clear images.
3. Entering the machine: The table will slide into a large, tube-shaped machine. The machine has a wide opening at both ends, so you will not be entirely enclosed, and you can see out of it.
4. Making sounds: During the scan, the machine will make various loud tapping or knocking sounds. Earplugs or headphones are required, and music may be provided to help reduce the noise and help you feel more comfortable.
5. Communication: You will be in touch with the Radiographer through an intercom system. They will guide you and let you know what is happening throughout the procedure.
6. Relax and breathe: The MRI will take images of your body's internal structures. It is important to try to stay calm, relaxed and breathe normally to avoid blurring the images.
7. Completion: Once the MRI is complete, the Radiographer will help you out of the machine. In some cases, more images might be needed but this will be explained to you if required.

How long does an MRI take?

The whole procedure usually takes around 15 to 90 minutes. This will vary depending on the number of body parts you are having scanned.

How/when will I receive my results? 

A Radiologist will review your results and then send them to your referring healthcare professional within a week of your appointment.

Processing times may vary for specialist examinations, so it’s a good idea to check with the hospital team before you leave. Your healthcare professional may recommend a follow-up appointment to discuss your results in detail.

Can I get a copy of my test results?

Yes, you can get a copy of your MRI scan results, but your referring healthcare professional will need to review them first and discuss the findings with you.

Are there any alternatives to an MRI scan?

There are several alternatives to an MRI scan, including:

• CT scan: A CT scan can be a good alternative to an MRI, especially if you have metal implants that cannot be removed and are not MRI-compatible. Whilst CT scans are faster, it is not as good showing subtle differences between tissue types.
• X-ray: X-rays are often used as an alternative to MRI to examine bones and other dense structures in the body. However, they are not good at detecting subtle soft tissue injuries or inflammation.
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound uses sound waves to create live images of the inside of the body. It’s often used during pregnancy, to diagnose tendon or muscle tears and examine organs such as the liver, kidneys, and heart.
• Biopsy: A biopsy involves inserting a needle into an organ or lump to collect cells for laboratory testing. While an MRI is a less invasive way to assess abnormalities, a biopsy is more accurate for confirming a diagnosis, like whether a lump is cancerous.

What are the risks of an MRI?

MRI scans are generally safe and non-invasive, but there are a few potential risks to be aware of. These risks are usually minor but can vary depending on individual circumstances:

1. Magnetic interference with metal implants or medical devices - if you have a metal implant or medical device, the magnetic field of the MRI can cause them to heat up or malfunction
2. Claustrophobia or anxiety – the enclosed space of an MRI may cause you to feel anxious or claustrophobic
3. Discomfort from noise – the loud knocking and buzzing sounds commonly heard during an MRI scan can cause discomfort. Earplugs or headphones are usually provided to help reduce the noise.
4. Allergic reactions to contrast dye – if you have a known allergy to contrast dye or kidney disease, please let your healthcare professional know.
5. Pregnancy – If you are pregnant or think you might be, please inform your healthcare professional. 

Who can have an MRI scan?

An MRI does not involve any radiation and is generally very safe for most adults and children. In some cases, it may not be recommended.

 You might not be able to have an MRI scan if you:

1. Have a metal implant
   The strong magnets used in an MRI can affect metal implants or devices, potentially causing them to heat up or malfunction. However, many modern implants and devices are MRI-compatible. Please tell your healthcare professional if you have:
   • Pacemaker
   • Cochlear implant
   • Aneurysm clips and coils
   • Electronic or implanted stimulators or devices
   • Metallic joint prostheses
   • Implanted drug pumps
   • Stents or filters
   • Metal fragments (e.g., shrapnel, metal pieces or shavings)
   • Continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or insulin pump
   • Medication patches
2. Are pregnant or breastfeeding
   If you are pregnant or think you might be, please speak to your healthcare professional. In some cases, an MRI may not be recommended during pregnancy, especially in the early stages. If you are breastfeeding, there are no known risks with contrast dye. However, we recommend you speak to your healthcare professional about any precautions you may want to take.
3. Have kidney problems or allergic to contrast dye
   If contrast dye is needed for the scan, people with kidney disease or poor kidney function may be at risk for complications and should be carefully assessed. If you have a known allergy to contrast dye, please tell your healthcare provider.
4. Suffer from claustrophobia or anxiety
   If you suffer from claustrophobia or anxiety, you may struggle with the enclosed space of an MRI machine. In these cases, an open MRI or sedation can be offered as an alternative.
5. Tattoos
   Some tattoo inks have small amounts of metal, but most tattoos are safe during an MRI scan. If you feel discomfort or warmth around your tattoo during the scan, tell the Radiographer immediately.
6. Dental implants or fillings
   In most cases, dental implants and fillings are generally safe in an MRI scan. However, please inform your health professional of your dental implants and fillings as they may cause slight image distortion near the mouth.