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The LivingCare Group
The LivingCare Group
Between June 2023 and May 2024, 47.0 million imaging tests were reported in England1. Imaging tests included X-ray, CT scan, MRI, and Ultrasound. These tests produce detailed images of the human body to aid in diagnosing and monitoring broken bones, joint conditions, cancer, and various diseases. Each scan is suited to different investigations; the clinician will determine which option is most suitable.
At LivingCare, we invest in our scanning department. We aim to see patients quickly in our Leeds and Sheffield clinics, even offering same-day appointments where possible. If your GP has referred you for a scan, or if you think you need one, you may be wondering what the differences are between MRI, CT scans, X-rays, and Ultrasound.
An X-ray shows bones, dense tissues, and foreign objects. During an X-ray, electromagnetic radiation passes through the body. The body’s tissues absorb these rays differently to create an image. You may be referred for an X-ray if you have a broken or fractured bone, dental problems, chest infection, bone tumours, lung problems, swallowing difficulties, heart concerns, or breast cancer2.
An X-ray is quick and painless. You’ll sit in a room, and a radiographer will position your body to capture the required image. They’ll then leave the room to capture the images. Although this method uses radiation, the exposure is minimal.
A radiographer will assess your results and either discuss them with you the same day or write a report for the doctor who requested the X-ray.
A CT scan shows detailed images of organs, bones, and blood vessels.
A CT scan uses multiple X-ray beams to create 3D images. The beam passes through the body at different angles, taking hundreds of measurements from various angles in a matter of seconds. These images then create a complete picture of bones, soft tissues, and organs.
Your GP or doctor may refer you for a CT scan to diagnose a condition, following an accident, or to check if a treatment is working. The CT scan can show internal bleeding, complex fractures, and tumours.
During the appointment, you will lie still on a bed as it moves through the scanner. You may need contrast dye for clearer images – a healthcare provider will administer this to you by injection. Depending on the scan type and images required, the scan can take between 10 and 30 minutes. It is painless and provides detailed images quickly.
An MRI employs strong magnetic fields and radio waves, producing detailed images of the body's interior. The scanner itself is a long tube containing powerful magnets.
The scan provides detailed images of the brain and spinal cord, bones and joints, breasts, heart and blood vessels, as well as internal organs. Doctors use the results to diagnose conditions, assess treatment, and plan future treatments.
During the scan, you’ll be inside the machine. It is loud and confined, but the healthcare team will give you headphones to play music from as a distraction. The appointment lasts 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the level of detail required.
An MRI is safe and painless. If you are claustrophobic, you may find it uncomfortable. However, your radiographer will be able to talk to you through your headphones to put you at ease. There’s no radiation with an MRI scan.
An ultrasound scan shows moving images of blood flow, organs, and developing babies. A GP or your doctor may refer you for an ultrasound to investigate symptoms or monitor a condition. Ultrasound scans enable clinicians to visualise the inside of the body during procedures, such as joint injections. Ultrasound scans can also give doctors a clear picture of the heart and stomach when the probe is attached to an endoscope.
During the ultrasound scan, you’ll lie or sit on a bed next to a machine. The healthcare professional will apply gel to your skin where they’ll be scanning to help the probe glide smoothly. An image appears on the screen, and the healthcare professional will take measurements and notes.
The ultrasound scan itself is painless. However, you may feel uncomfortable if the physician presses the probe on an area that’s already swollen or painful. The appointment lasts 10 to 45 minutes.
You may receive your results at the appointment or on a later date after your doctor or GP has reviewed the report.
If your doctor has referred you for a scan, they’ll decide which one is most appropriate between MRI, CT, Ultrasound, and X-ray. At LivingCare, we understand that waiting for scans and results is an anxious time. This is why we offer quick access to appointments and longer consultations. Our scanning department is led by experts and features top-of-the-range equipment for excellent, detailed imaging.
