MRI Scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan)

MRI scans are multi-dimensional non-invasive diagnostic imaging tests used to investigate a range of different conditions.

What is an MRI?

An MRI scan is a diagnostic imaging test that uses high-powered magnetic fields to produce clear and detailed images of the inside of a patient’s body. An MRI can examine almost any area of clinical interest and is very useful for investigating soft tissue structures to help diagnose and identify various conditions.

MRI scans are common, non-invasive, and painless procedures frequently used to examine the brain, spinal cord, bones, joints, abdomen, pelvic region, heart and blood vessels, breasts and more. Studies have shown that MRI scans carry no risk to the patient; therefore, following your appointment, you would be free to continue your day as usual.

Why you might need an MRI Scan –

• Joints & Bones: Post-injury investigation, arthritis, cartilage problems, joint discomfort, poor X-ray results and torn ligaments/tendons
• Spinal: Investigation of general back mobility issues, Nerve damage, slipped discs, disc bulge, spinal stenosis etc.
• Abdomen and pelvis: an examination of the organs in the Stomach area, such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and bladder. They can be used to find tumours, bleeding, infection, and blockage. For women, they can be used to examine the uterus and ovaries. For men, it can examine the prostate.
• Head and Neck: can be used to detect several brain conditions, including assessment of damage from a stroke or a head injury, inflammation, tumours, swelling, cysts etc. and may be ordered for investigation of symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, seizures, headaches, and blurred vision.

Why use Beacon for Private MRI Scans?

•         We provide rapid access to diagnostic tests and scans for a wide variety of conditions and symptoms.          Our Radiographers are UK trained and have vast experience in the observation and recognition of all          MRI-related ailments, which can be vital in early diagnosis.
•         We use Mobile MRI clinics at various locations across Greater Manchester, focusing on ease of access          and speed of diagnostics. You can arrange to have an MRI scan at one of our locations closest to you.
•         Our MRI service can be used as part of your care pathway here at Beacon. Our ENT service or Private            GP may have referred you for an MRI. Having one internally with us allows us to gain a deeper                        understanding of your healthcare needs, allowing for a more personalised patient journey.

Do you have to make any preparations before your appointment?

•         If you can, please arrive dressed in clothes without zips or metal buttons.
•         You should leave any valuable possessions, such as jewellery or watches, at home.
•         You should arrive 10 minutes before the stated appointment time.
•         You should inform us of any special requirements (for example, if you need wheelchair access, if you            are hard of hearing, if you have poor eyesight or if you are claustrophobic).

Undertaking these guidelines prior to your appointment will help to ensure a smooth, safe, and successful scan.

Is an MRI safe?

As with any of our clinical services, patient safety is always our number one concern. An MRI is a painless, noninvasive procedure which therefore doesn’t require you to make any special preparations or modifications (unless specifically told to). You can continue to eat and drink as normal and continue to take any prescribed medication right up to and immediately after your appointment.

However, if you are due an MRI scan with us and you answer ‘YES’ to any of the following: you should contact us to discuss this further to ensure that you are safe to have an MRI scan.

•         You are pregnant or may be pregnant.
•         You have a cardiac pacemaker.
•         You have had any type of heart surgery.
•         You have a cochlear implant, neurostimulator, or programmable hydrocephalus shunt.
•         You have any metal implants in your body.
•         You have had an injury to your eyes involving metal or metal fragments.
•         You have had any operations on your head, eyes, ears, or spine.

When booking your appointment, we will ask you some initial safety questions over the phone. We will also send you an additional safety questionnaire with your appointment letter. Please read these questions carefully, answer honestly, and remember to bring this with you to your appointment.

It is important that you provide us with all the necessary information prior to your scan so that it can be conducted safely and successfully. If you have any questions, concerns or special requirements, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Contacting us

Please fill out a form on the contact page and we will be in touch as soon as possible to organise your appointment. 

Frequently asked questions can be found below, however, if you have any further enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us by our website, email, or phone.