MRI Scans

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a type of scan that produces a detailed picture of the tissue and organs inside of your body, using strong magnetic fields and radio waves.  An MRI scan is a safe and painless procedure which captures high-quality images of inside the body. An MRI is commonly used by doctors to help figure out what is causing your illness or pain.

An MRI scan provides precise information about the structure of the joints, soft tissue and bones in the body and important information on the organs and glands within the abdomen. 

What to expect

An MRI scan is a painless procedure so anaesthetic is not usually necessary.  If you suffer from claustrophobia, you can request a sedative to help you relax. If a sedative is used during your scan, you will need to arrange for transport home, as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours following the procedure.

Before undertaking the scan, the radiographer will take some information from you and ask you to lie on a bed that will be moved into the scanner.  A computer operates the MRI scanner located in an adjacent room where the radiographer can see the scans and speak to you through an intercom system.  The MRI scanner can make loud, repetitive clicking noises that may last for several minutes during the procedure, this is perfectly normal and you will be given headphones to help cancel it out.

In some cases, contrast dye is injected, making tissues and blood vessels show in greater detail, increasing the accuracy of the images.

The length of time the scan will take depends on the part of the body being scanned. Generally, scans take anywhere between 15-90 minutes to perform.

Following an MRI scan

It is rare that you will experience side effects and complications caused by the MRI scan and you will generally be able to resume your normal daily activities immediately (providing you did not receive a sedative).

You may be asked to make a follow up appointment with your doctor to discuss the results after the scan. 

Need help?

At One Healthcare we can book you in for an MRI scan, usually within 48 hours.  MRI scans are available at One Ashford Hospital in Kent and One Hatfield Hospital in Hertfordshire.

You can use your private medical insurance or pay for your MRI Scans treatment. We offer competitive, fixed price packages. If you are using your health insurance, please contact your insurer first for approval and let them know you’d like to be treated at One Hatfield Hospital.

Why One Hatfield

• Modern purpose-built hospital opened in December 2017
• 0% and low finance options**
• Fast access to diagnostics including MRI, X-ray and Ultrasound
• Private, spacious, en-suite rooms
• Specialist physiotherapy and nursing teams
• Little or no waiting time
• ‘Ultra clean air’ theatres
• Freshly prepared food
• Calm, dignified experience

**Terms and conditions apply

Contact us and find out more

If you are based in and around Hertfordshire, St Albans, Stevenage, Watford, Barnet, North London, Welwyn or Bedfordshire and would like to visit the One Hatfield Hospital please click here.