MRI scans have transformed medical diagnostics by providing detailed images of the body’s internal structures. As one of London’s few dedicated MRI clinics, we regularly see patients requiring specialised scans of specific areas, with the lower back, knees, and brain being the most common.

In response to increasing patient demand, we have expanded our services to include whole-body MRI scans. This advanced and comprehensive scan offers a thorough overview of your health, enabling early detection of potential issues. Non-invasive and designed for preventive healthcare, it facilitates timely interventions and informed decisions about your well-being.

Understanding MRI Scans

MRI scans utilise magnetic fields to generate precise images of the body’s internal organs and tissues. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, an MRI scan does not use ionising radiation, making it a safer option for many patients. By capturing images across multiple planes, the scan offers a thorough view of the area being examined.

During the procedure, patients lie on a motorised bed that moves into the MRI scanner. Depending on the area of interest, individuals enter the scanner either headfirst or feet first.

Benefits of a Full Body MRI Scan

A full body MRI scan has several advantages that include:

Early Detection

It can be used to help identify abnormalities such as tumours, ischaemia in the brain, spine degeneration and gallstones which can lead to faster diagnosis and pathways to treatment.

Comprehensive Assessment

The scan provides a complete overview of major organs and systems to evaluate multiple body parts simultaneously, so you get a holistic picture of your whole body.

Non-Invasive

Full body MRI scans are non-invasive. As a painless procedure without the use of ionising radiation, it is suitable for regular monitoring.

Detailed Imaging

MRI produces images in multiple planes, allowing for accurate diagnosis across a range of  conditions.

Rapid Results

A major advantage of undertaking an MRI scan at Oryon is that you can view and download the MRI images with dual reporting by two specialised consultant radiologists. This means less fretting over results to ensure action can be taken more quickly, if needed.

Areas Covered

A full body MRI scan is comprehensive and typically scans the following areas of the body:

• Brain: to check for tumours, ischaemia, or other anomalies.
• Chest: to check the lungs for some major abnormalities
• Abdomen: to check the liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and adrenal glands.
• Pelvis: to check the reproductive organs, bladder, and rectum.
• Spine: to check degenerative changes or other spinal issues.

Conditions Detected

A full body MRI scan is able to uncover various conditions, including:

• Solid Tumours (malignant or benign growths)
• Metabolic Disorders
• Non-Cancerous Conditions (cysts, abscesses, or inflammatory processes)
• Musculoskeletal Issues

What to Expect

Before the scan, you will need to remove any metal objects from their body, including jewellery and clothing with metal zippers or buttons. You will also be asked to complete a safety questionnaire to ensure that you are not carrying any implants, pacemakers, or other devices that may be affected by the magnetic field of the scanner.

After this you will then be taken into the MRI operation room, where you will lie on the MRI table and be slid into the scanner. Once this has taken place, the scanner sends radio waves throughout the body that interact with the magnetic field and produce detailed images of internal structures.

For those nervous prior to the procedure, our aim is to make you feel as confident and comfortable as possible. During the procedure you will be given a hand-held call bell that you can squeeze at any time during the scan to talk to the Radiographer, who will be in regular contact to update you on the progress of the scan and reassure you throughout the MRI scan.

The entire procedure usually takes between 80-100 minutes, depending on the full body MRI package you have chosen. After the scan, you can collect your valuables and can return to your normal activities immediately.

Booking a Scan

To schedule a full body MRI scan you’ll need a referral from a healthcare professional. Consult your care giver to discuss if you need a scan. If they deem it appropriate, you can be referred to an imaging clinic like Oryon.

If you don’t have a referral, fear not. You can self-refer using our quick and easy self-referral service to get a trusted referral from one of our healthcare professionals.

Take charge of your health with a full body MRI scan.

If you’re interested in a scan today you can book a Full Body MRI online. Or Contact us if you’d like to learn more about the procedure, costs, and how to prepare for an appointment.