Do I need a full body MRI scan?
With longer waiting lists and increasing pressure on GP services, patients are turning to Private healthcare more than ever.
You may have recently seen your GP about ongoing pain or worrying symptoms and been referred for tests, such as blood testing, ultrasounds, X-rays, or MRI scans for that isolated area.
However, what if you have a concern with no visible symptoms?
In some cases, all we want is some reassurance and peace of mind that there isn’t an issue, and we haven’t missed a sign or symptom. However, early detection of ill-health often means better treatment options.
And this is when it may be time to think bigger picture and consider a full body MRI.
So, what is a full body MRI?
An MRI uses a strong magnetic field to capture multiple detailed images of individual areas of your body, which can be used to provide insight into ongoing concerns and symptoms and assist with providing the right treatment.
In comparison, a full body MRI is best used to examine symptom-less concerns, as the scan uses the same MRI technology to provide an overview of the major areas of the body. This is usually the brain, chest, spine, abdomen and pelvis, as they are areas of the body most prone to disease, abnormal growth, or degeneration.
Why might you consider a full body MRI scan?
You may be considering booking a scan if you:
- Have a recurring history of ill health in your family
- Would like to know more about your general health
- Have concerns about the impact your lifestyle is having on your body
- Had an operation or treatment and you’d like to see if it’s working
- Had a surgical procedure and would like to see the results
- Have been feeling generally unwell for a while, with no obvious cause
What are the benefits of having a full body MRI?
A full body MRI can detect signs and symptoms in your body to help your Healthcare provider diagnose many conditions, from ligament and muscle damage to tumours and spinal cord injuries.
There are many conditions and cancers that may go undetected due to a lack of physical symptoms and early detection can provide a better chance of effective treatment options.
In some more serious health concerns, a full body MRI can help your specialist see if the condition or cancer has spread further or assess how effective your treatment has been.
What is included in a fully body MRI?
A whole body MRI scan includes:
- Brain – including MRA of blood vessels
- Neck - blood vessels
- Chest (not including heart or lungs)
- Abdomen – including the liver, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, gallbladder
- Pelvis – for females, this includes the uterus, ovaries and urinary bladder. For males, this includes the prostate and urinary bladder.
How can I get my results?
After your scan is complete, your MRI scan images will be sent to our team of specialist radiologists to write a report of the findings. Once the report is available, we will send a copy to you and your chosen Healthcare Professional via email.
If you have any questions or need an urgent report, you can get in touch with our bookings team, and they will assist you.
Why choose MRI Plus for your full body MRI?
At MRI Plus, we believe that our patients should be able to take control of their own health.
We offer individual MRI scans from £199 or a full body MRI from £999.
So, with same-day appointments and the option to book online, why not see if there’s a scan to suit your needs?
Check out our website for more information or go ahead and book your MRI scan online today.
