What is MRI scanning?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a scanning technique that uses a high powered magnetic field and radio frequency waves to produce exquisitely detailed images. It is a safe method of scanning which does not involve exposure to x-rays. The patient simply lies on a table which slides into the scanner. How far in depends on what body part is being scanned. MRI scans take longer than CT scans to perform (average 30 minutes in the scanner) and the scanner itself can be noisy so headphones are offered and in some hospitals you can bring a CD of your own choice of music for your scan.
What are the uses for MRI scanning?
MRI scans are particularly useful for imaging the brain and the musculoskeletal system (e.g. spine and knees) but can also be used to image the arteries when the technique is then called MRA or Magnetic Resonance Angiography. Apart from supervising and reporting scans the role of radiologists like Dr. Crowe is also to advise patients, general practitioners and other specialists which type of scan (ultrasound, CT or MRI) is best to answer the particular clinical concern at the time. MRI scanning is very safe but there are certain exclusions on safety grounds, particularly that individuals with cardiac pacemakers should not go into an MRI scanner.
Multparametric MRI (mpMRI) for Prostate Disease
This is a special MRI technique to image the prostate and uses anatomical (identifying a focal abnormality) and functional (identify likelihood of cancer) sequences. The advantages of this technique are that it is non-invasive, can accurately record the size of the prostate gland and identify significant prostate cancer, if the volume is above 0.5cm3 (7mm lesion). It also can clearly identify the front of the gland and the apex (lowest point) and identify the likelihood of any spread outside the gland.
A completely normal mpMRIP can therefore be very reassuring that there is no significant prostate cancer and can help you make the decision if you need a TRUS biopsy or could be followed up with PSA measurements and interval mpMRIP’s.
For more information or to make an appointment, please use the contact form or speak to Dr. Crowe’s secretary on 0121 448 1502.
For Private Treatment
Please use the contact form or speak to Dr. Crowe’s secretary on 0121 448 1502. MRI scans are available at all of our sites on various days of the week. MRI and other diagnostic scans are routinely covered by private health insurance though it is always advisable to get pre-authorisation from your insurer and to check any conditions or exclusions that apply to your individual policy.
Self-Fund MRI scans
It is not necessary to have private health insurance in order to book a private MRI scan and many people choose to self-pay for a quick diagnosis and peace of mind and in order to avoid long NHS waiting times.
Self-fund scans are available at all of Dr. Crowe’s locations. The exact price depends on the type of MRI being performed and there are price variations between location. The scan fee is paid directly to the hospital or clinic and includes all reporting fees, etc. Please use the contact form for more information and a call back.
