Private MRI scan referral
Our MRI referrals are operating as normal throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re still able to provide same day referrals for scans. Please book a GP appointment to discuss your referral.
At London Doctors Clinic we can provide you a referral to our partners at InHealth should you need a private MRI scan. Book a 15-minute appointment at one of our London clinics to get a same day referral.
What is an MRI scan?
MRI scans (Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan) use strong magnetic fields, radio waves and a powerful computer to produce detailed images of inside the body. MRI scans don’t rely on the type of radiation (ionizing radiation) that is used for x-ray or CT scans and produce pictures from angles all around the body including soft tissues.
What is an MRI scan used for?
This type of scan can examine almost any part of the body and the scan results can help diagnose a variety of conditions. As well as being a source for diagnosing illnesses, MRI scans results can be used for treatment plans and assess how previous treatments have been. MRI scans are commonly used for the brain, spinal cord, bones, joints, abdomen, pelvic region, heart and blood vessels, breasts and more.
How to prepare for an MRI scan private referral
To prepare for an MRI scan private referral you will be asked to lie flat on a large table that slides into a large tube with powerful scanner magnets.
The magnets pull the protons in your body, so they are all aligned in the same direction. Short bursts of radio waves are sent to certain parts of the body and the radio signals from the protons combine and produce a detailed image of inside the body.
The procedure is painless but can be quite noisy so and you may be offered to use earplugs. The scan can take from 15 to 90 minutes depending on what part of the body is being examined. You’ll be informed of how long your scan is most likely to take before the procedure.
During the scan you will be required to stay as still. It can be nerve-wracking but try to relax as much as possible and the radiographer will be there to support you. You can breathe normally while having MRI procedure, but you may be asked to hold your breath for a short period. During the scan, the radiographer will be able to speak and hear you in case you feel uneasy.
Do I need an MRI scan private referral?
MRI scans are usually issued as part of further investigation into a part of the body.
Here are some cases of when you may need a scan:
- If you recently had injury to a muscle, ligament or cartilage and ongoing pain that hasn’t improved with treatment
- Swelling, redness, or fluid build-up in your joints
- If you recently dislocated or locked a joint
- If you suffer with infertility, digestive issues, discover abnormal lump or need post-surgical follow-up
- If you had abnormal findings in X-ray or CT scan
How can we help you?
If you have any concerns come and see us at one of our London based clinics and we’ll be able to help. If you are looking for a MRI scan London appointment, book your appointment today and we can help.
If you do need a referral, we can provide this for you alongside any other advice.
For more information on MRI scans, take a look at these articles:
Written by: Agne Zemaite, General Practitioner at London Doctors Clinic
Published: February 2019
Review date: February 2022