MRI and CT Scan Referral in Leicester

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan is a medical imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body. It’s commonly used to visualise soft tissues, such as the brain, muscles, and organs.

A CT (Computed Tomography) scan, also known as a CAT scan, is an imaging procedure that uses X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the body. It’s especially useful for examining bone structures, detecting tumours, and assessing internal injuries.

The choice between an MRI and a CT scan depends on what your doctor is looking to diagnose. MRI is typically preferred for imaging soft tissues, such as the brain, spinal cord, and joints. CT scans are often used to examine bone fractures, detect internal bleeding, and diagnose cancers.

Preparation varies depending on the type of scan. For an MRI, you may need to remove all metal objects and sometimes change into a hospital gown. For a CT scan, you might be asked to fast for a few hours if contrast dye is used. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

During an MRI scan, you’ll lie on a table that slides into a large, cylindrical machine. The machine makes loud noises as it takes images, so you may be given earplugs or headphones. You’ll need to lie very still during the scan, which can last anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour.

During a CT scan, you’ll lie on a table that moves through a doughnut-shaped scanner. The machine takes a series of X-ray images from different angles, which are then processed by a computer to create cross-sectional images. The procedure usually takes just a few minutes.

Both MRI and CT scans are non-invasive and painless procedures. However, you may experience some discomfort from lying still for an extended period, and in the case of MRI, the noise can be unsettling. If contrast dye is used, there might be a slight discomfort from the injection.

MRI scans are generally very safe, but they are not recommended for people with certain implants, like pacemakers, due to the strong magnetic fields. CT scans involve exposure to a small amount of radiation, so they are usually only recommended when the benefits outweigh the risks, particularly for pregnant women.

Contrast agents are substances injected into your body to enhance the visibility of specific tissues or blood vessels during an MRI or CT scan. They help provide clearer images and more accurate diagnoses. Not all scans require contrast, and your doctor will decide if it’s necessary.

The images from an MRI or CT scan are usually available immediately, but a radiologist needs to analyse them before your doctor can provide a diagnosis. This process typically takes a few days, but it could be faster in urgent situations.