An MRI scan is a safe, non-invasive way to see detailed images of the inside of your body. Using magnetic fields and radio waves, it’s especially useful for looking at soft tissues like the brain, spinal cord, joints, and organs. MRI scans help us understand what’s happening inside your body and guide treatment decisions – without the need for surgery.
You’ll lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine. The scan is painless, but it’s important to stay still while images are taken. Most scans take 20–60 minutes, depending on the area being examined. The machine can be noisy, so we can provide headphones and music to make you more comfortable.
Preparation depends on the type of scan. Some may require fasting or drinking a special preparation. We’ll give you clear, personalised instructions before your appointment.
MRI scans are generally very safe. People with certain implants or devices—like pacemakers—may need special precautions, so it’s important to tell us about any implants well before your scan.
The procedure is painless, though lying still for a while can sometimes feel a little uncomfortable. In some cases, a contrast dye may be injected to help improve image clarity.
The detailed images allow for early and accurate detection, which in turn helps us to plan your treatment more effectively in order to achieve the best outcome possible. That means MRI scans are an invaluable tool to diagnose a wide range of medical conditions, including:
An imaging test that uses sound waves to create real-time images of soft tissues and organs, allowing us to make an accurate and non-invasive diagnosis.
A procedure that allows us to visually inspect your digestive tract to diagnose and monitor gastrointestinal conditions.
A minimally invasive procedure that examines the lungs and surrounding lymph nodes.