MRI Scan

What is an MRI Scan?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields to align the hydrogen atoms in the body and radio waves which are directed at these atoms to produce signals captured in receivers to create exceptionally detailed multi directional images of the inside of the body without the use of radiation.

3T MRI represents the most powerful magnetic resonance scanning technology clinically available today. The "3T" refers to the magnetic field strength (3 Tesla). This means that Living Care’s MRI Scanners are twice as powerful as conventional 1.5T systems. This increased power delivers exceptional image clarity and detail that improves diagnostic confidence and means less time in the scanner for patients.

How an MRI Scan Works

MRI technology uses powerful magnets to align hydrogen atoms in your body's water molecules. When radiofrequency pulses are directed at these aligned atoms, they produce signals that are captured by sensitive receivers and processed by sophisticated computers to create remarkably detailed cross-sectional images.

This advanced process allows our radiologists to:

1. Visualise soft tissues with unprecedented clarity
2. Distinguish between normal and abnormal tissue
3. Examine blood flow and organ function
4. Create detailed 3D reconstructions of internal structures
5. Detect subtle changes that might indicate early disease

Unlike X-ray or CT scans, MRI doesn't use ionising radiation, making it particularly valuable for patients who need repeated imaging or have radiation sensitivity concerns.

What is an MRI Scan Used For?

MRI scans provide invaluable insights into a wide range of health conditions, including:

1. Neurological assessment: Evaluating brain conditions, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, and stroke
2. Musculoskeletal examination: Diagnosing sports injuries, joint disorders, and soft tissue damage
3. Cancer detection and staging: Identifying tumours and monitoring treatment response
4. Cardiovascular evaluation: Assessing heart structure, function, and blood flow
5. Abdominal and pelvic imaging: Examining organs such as the liver, kidneys, and reproductive organs
6. Specialised urological imaging: Detecting conditions such as prostate cancer with exceptional accuracy

The versatility and precision of MRI make it an essential diagnostic tool for complex or challenging cases where detailed imaging is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

What to Expect When Receiving an MRI Scan in Sheffield or Leeds

The MRI scanner is a large, tube-shaped machine containing powerful magnets. It is operated by a radiographer, a highly skilled allied healthcare professional trained in the use of advanced imaging equipment.

Before Your Appointment

Preparing for your MRI scan is straightforward. You'll complete a comprehensive MRI screening questionnaire that helps our team assure your safety be identifying any contraindications or precautions. This includes information about implanted medical devices, previous surgeries, and any metallic implants like pacemakers or artificial joints.

During your appointment

When you arrive for your MRI, our experienced radiographer will:

1. Explain clearly what will happen during the examination and seek consent to proceed.
2. Position you comfortably on the movable examination table
3. Provide you with earplugs or headphones (the scanner produces loud tapping and thumping sounds)
4. Position any receiving equipment, known as coils, around the body part being examined
5. Ensure you have an emergency call button to communicate during the scan
6. Move the table into the cylindrical MRI scanner ensuring the body part being imaged is at the centre of the scanner.

The radiographer will monitor you on a screen throughout the procedure, so you will never be alone and during the scan the machine makes loud tapping or thumping noises; this is completely normal.

After Your Appointment

Once your scan is complete, you can immediately resume normal activities.

Our consultant radiologist will analyse your images and prepare a comprehensive report typically completed within 48 hours. There is also the option to upgrade to a faster turnaround time of 24 hours, and for further information on this please contact us.