Are you in need of an urgent MRI scan? We recognise that painful injuries and undiagnosed health concerns can hold you back from doing what you love. MRI scans help to diagnose medical conditions with greater accuracy. Leading to more successful treatment of patients suffering from a wide range of conditions that affect the brain, spine and nervous system. MRI scans are also used for the diagnosis of heart conditions, cancer, liver and kidney problems and issues affecting bones and joints, such as arthritis and sports injuries. Referrals on the NHS can take weeks or even months to be processed. Living in the unknown can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety, especially if you are suffering from painful symptoms. At Pall Mall, we offer speedy MRI scans at our CQC registered private hospital, with no long waiting lists or need for a referral. With our end-to-end support, you can receive a diagnosis and treatment plan within a few days. When you choose Pall Mall, you will benefit from the highest level of patient care. We understand that MRI scans can be daunting, especially if it's your first time. Our dedicated team of specialists are on hand to make the experience go as smoothly as possible and are always happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Our state of the art MRI scanner
Private MRI scan
- No NHS referral needed
- From £400
- Hospital in Newton-le-Willows
- Fast results
Don't let an injury or health concern impact your quality of life. Get in touch with our expert team today.
How much does a private MRI scan cost?
Please note that we cannot perform comparison scans.
| Area | Scan price |
|---|---|
| 1 Area of head or brain | £400 |
| 1 Area - Kidney | £400 |
| 1 Area of neck (e.g. neck, cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine) | £400 |
| 1 Area - Liver or Pancreas or Pelvis | £400 |
| 1 Area - Hand or wrist | £400 |
| 1 Area - Ankle or Knee or Elbow | £400 |
| 2 Areas - E.g. Ankle and Elbow | WAS: £600 NOW: £450 |
| 3 Areas - E.g. Ankle, Knee and Elbow | £750 |
| 4 Areas - E.g. Wrist, Ankle, Knee and Elbow | £900 |
| Whole Spine (cervical, thoracic & lumbar) | £750 |
| Large bowel | £600 |
| Sacroiliac joints | £400 |
| Silver package – Includes Brain, Abdomen and Pelvis | £1500 |
| Gold package - Brain, Abdomen, Pelvis and Spine | £2,000 |
| Platinum package - Brain, Abdomen, Pelvis and Spine plus a range of blood tests and an Electrocardiogram | £2,500 |
0% interest and flexible finance
Private MRI scan finance
How much does a private MRI scan cost?
With our private MRI scan services, you can expect transparent costs with no sneaky surprises. The price of the scan will depend on the nature of the issue or condition and how many areas the radiographer will need to investigate.
| 14.9% APR Representative example: | 0% APR: |
Total cost of treatment £2500 | Total cost of treatment £2500 |
Cost of deposit £500 | Cost of deposit £1250 |
The total amount of Credit £2000 | The total amount of Credit £1250 |
Total charge for credit £790 | Total charge for credit £0 |
Total Amount Repayable £3290 | Total Amount Repayable £2500 |
Repayable over 60 months | Repayable over 24 months |
Monthly payments of £46.50 | Monthly payments of £52.08 |
14.9% APR Representative | 0% APR Representative |
- 0% finance available
- 12-60-month finance plan
- No deposit required
- No hidden costs
- Quick & easy online application
Enquire About Our MRI Scan
A member of our team will be in touch with you to discuss your requirements.
Private medical insurance at Pall Mall
We work with all the major private medical insurance providers, including Bupa, Vitality, Allianz, and Aviva. This means you may be able to cover the cost of this service by using your medical insurance policy.
You should always contact your insurer before booking an appointment. Your insurer will check that your policy covers this service at Pall Mall Medical and can pre-authorise your treatment. You’ll need to provide us with your insurer details and pre-authorisation code when you get in touch with our team.
Get all the answers you need.
Why book a private MRI scan?
Whatever your reason for needing or wanting an MRI scan, one thing’s for sure, you don’t want to have to wait weeks or even months to have it. And unfortunately, that’s often the case if you’re referred for an MRI scan, by your doctor through the NHS. So, whether it’s to further investigate a medical condition, to resolve a sports injury that’s not getting any better, or because you want to check out your general state of health, you can arrange a private MRI scan at Pall Mall without a referral or having to wait.
Fast results, up to 7 days
What is an MRI scan?
An MRI scan, or magnetic resonance imaging, is essentially a large tube containing powerful magnets. Using a combination of magnetic fields and radio waves, a professional radiographer will generate a detailed image of the inside of your body. Unlike X-rays, MRI scans do not use any forms of radiation.
This noninvasive scan provides a high level of accuracy, helping in the early detection of conditions or injuries. It can also be used to monitor ongoing treatment. With this diagnosis, an effective treatment plan can be created to help alleviate any symptoms and kickstart the recovery process. This is a safe procedure and you will not be exposed to the harmful effects of radiation.
MRI scans can be used to get a closer look at almost any part of the body, including brain & spinal cord, breasts, bones & joints, heart & blood vessels and internal organs.
Do you need a full body scan?
When you choose Pall Mall, you can benefit from immediate access to industry-leading diagnostics that can be used to address a variety of concerns. As one of the most advanced imaging techniques, our Brain and Body MRI scans provide a detailed insight into your overall state of health and can be used to detect any issues in the vital organs.
Whether you're looking for peace of mind about your general wellbeing or have an undiagnosed condition that is causing you concern, this could be the option for you.
If you would like to extend your scan to include other areas, this will be an additional cost. To find out exactly what is and is not included in this scan, please visit our Brain and Body MRI scan terms and conditions page.
Cheryl and Zac, Pall Mall Staff
What happens during an MRI scan?
There aren’t any special preparations you need to make on the day of your scan. Apart from remembering not to wear any metal, for example jewellery, watches, glasses etc and to remove any piercings. Once you are lying on the bed it will move forward and position you to get the clearest possible images. Because the scan can take anything from 30 minutes to two hours, the best thing to do is simply lie back and relax. You’ll be able to talk to your radiologist at any time during your MRI scan and you’ll receive support and reassurance if you have any concerns whatsoever. After your scan you can continue with your daily activities, for example, drive and go back to work if you choose to.
What to expect?
You’ll be asked to lie on a bed that moves into the MRI scanner. The part of the body being scanned is placed in the middle of the scanner. To make sure you feel comfortable the scanner is open at both ends and there is a fan inside. There is also a two-way intercom so that you can talk to your radiographer.
For some patients, the MRI scan will involve an injection of a contrast dye called gadolinium. This is to provide more clarity and detail for certain tissues and blood vessels.
Although minimal, there are potential side effects of gadolinium to be aware of:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Feeling of coldness at the injection site
The above side effects should only last for a short time.
If you require a functional MRI scan, you may be asked to perform some simple tasks, such as squeezing your hand or answering a few questions. This is to create a visual map of the brain, highlighting an increase in oxygen and blood flow to certain regions.
Do you suffer from claustrophobia?
Although this is a safe and painless procedure, the machine itself is a confined space and can cause some patients to experience distressing symptoms, such as an increased heart rate, sweating, and difficulty breathing. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible throughout the process, so please let your radiographer know if you suffer from claustrophobia. With years of experience, our team of experts have worked with plenty of anxious patients.
If you are concerned about having a panic attack, there are several things you can do to help ease your anxiety. Sometimes this can be as simple as asking a question or doing some research before your scan. Other patients find it helpful to distract themselves with breathing exercises. We've all heard of counting sheep, but focusing on a steady breathing rhythm can be an effective way of grounding the body and calming the mind.
Introducing a few home comforts can also make a world of difference - a blanket can be provided to keep you warm and cosy. If you struggle with severe claustrophobia, and you are over 18 years old, your consultant may recommend a sedative. Please discuss any medication ahead of the procedure.
Are MRI scans noisy?
During the MRI scan, the electric currents will occasionally cause loud tapping sounds when obtaining an image. This is normal and nothing to be concerned about - however, the unfamiliar sound can be alarming.
We can provide you with earplugs or headphones to help you stay relaxed.
How long does an MRI scan take?
Each MRI scan usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the number of areas of the body being examined and how many images are needed.
This is an outpatient procedure and you will not be required to stay overnight. Usually, you are able to go home soon after the scan. If you have been sedated, you will need to arrange for a family member or friend to take you home and stay with you for 24 hours.
A few things to remember after taking a sedative:
- Do not drink or drive for 24 hours
- Do not operate any heavy machinery for 24 hours
- Eat small meals frequently to avoid nausea and vomiting
- Get plenty of rest (a cosy blanket and your favourite film are also very important)
Your MRI results
After your scan you'll receive a report from your radiologist explaining the results and whether any further tests or consultations are required. MRI scan results are considered to be normal if the radiologist doesn’t discover anything abnormal in the images.
Maxine, Pall Mall Nurse
What health concerns can an MRI scan help with?
When it comes to investigating suspected injury or disease, there is sometimes a need for diagnostic imaging. This can help to more accurately identify the problem and create an effective treatment plan.
Need for imaging of the brain and spinal cord
For issues with the brain and spinal cord, MRI is the most commonly used imaging test. There are a variety of concerns this type of scan is used for:
- Tumours present in the brain or spinal cord
- Abscesses
- Brain injury as the result of trauma
- Stroke
- Spinal cord disorders
- Disorders of the eye and inner ear
- Aneurysms of cerebral vessels
- Degenerative diseases, such as multiple sclerosis
- Bleeding into the brain or spinal cord
In some cases, damage caused by a head injury or from certain disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, will be investigated using a functional MRI.
If you play contact sports professionally - including rugby, football, and boxing - we would recommend having annual brain checks. On average, 1,200 rugby players suffer from head injuries each year, with around two-thirds of these cases being linked to concussions or brain injuries.
MRI scans can detect early signs of brain damage and prevent progressive brain diseases, such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy, from developing.
There are measures you can take to prevent or reduce the severity of head injuries:
- Wear the correct size helmet or headgear, where necessary
- Wear appropriate clothing
- Avoid any clothing that could interfere with your vision
- If you're feeling unwell or tired, do not participate
- Replace any damaged or worn protective gear
What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?
- Headache or feeling of pressure in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Issues with balance or dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Feeling sluggish or groggy
- Confusion or issues with concentration
- Loss of memory
How soon after a head injury do concussion symptoms start?
Mild symptoms can appear soon after the incident while others can take hours or even a day.
If left untreated, a concussion can lead to serious long-term complications. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or are concerned you may have a concussion, please contact our team today.
What are the signs and symptoms of a traumatic brain injury, or TBI?
- Persistent headache or a headache that worsens over time
- Repeated nausea or vomiting
- Dilated pupils
- Loss of consciousness, lasting from several minutes to hours
- Clear fluids coming from the nose or ears
- Convulsions or seizures
How serious is a traumatic brain injury?
Not every knock to the head will result in a traumatic brain injury, but it's important to get checked out just in case. TBI can temporarily affect normal brain function, including issues with communication and movement. More serious types of TBI can lead to permanent disability and, in some cases, can be fatal.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or are concerned you may have a traumatic brain injury, please contact our team today.
Book your private MRI scan with Pall Mall today.
Need for imaging of internal organs
For conditions that are difficult to diagnose, such as inflammatory bowel disease, you may have several GP appointments before you receive a referral for further testing. This can be a lengthy and frustrating process, especially if the symptoms are impacting your day-to-day life. A private MRI scan with Pall Mall will give you rapid access to results and further support with treatment if required.
MRI scans can produce images in multiple planes, giving the radiographer a clear image of your internal organs from different angles. It can be used to investigate a wide range of abnormalities or conditions.
Issues affecting the abdominal organs:
- Liver disease
- Pancreatic cancer
- Kidney stones
- Abdominal tumours, both benign and malignant
- Inflammatory bowel diseases, including such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease
Why is it so hard to diagnose Crohn's disease?
The symptoms of Crohn's disease are very similar to other conditions and can vary from patient to patient. These can include diarrhoea, severe stomach cramps, tiredness, and weight loss. An MRI is more effective than blood tests for detecting inflammation in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Living with Crohn's disease can be challenging. As well as anti-inflammatory medications, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to ease the symptoms. These include simplifying your diet, minimising caffeine, and quitting smoking.
Inflammatory bowel diseases have also been linked to stress. There are several simple ways that you can minimise everyday stress and regain control over your IBD symptoms. Introducing meditation and focused breathing into your daily routine can be extremely effective. If you are unsure where to begin, there are plenty of apps out there to guide you through the process.
Issues affecting the pelvic organs:
- Gynaecological conditions, including uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis
- Prostate cancer
- Bladder and urethral abnormalities, including tumours, stones, and obstructions
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Rectal and anal conditions, including anal fistulas, rectal cancer, and abscesses
Issues affecting the lungs:
- Lung cancer
- Pulmonary embolism, caused by a blockage in the pulmonary artery
- Pleural effusion, caused by a build-up of fluid around the lungs
- Pneumonia
- Lung fibrosis, a condition that causes scarring of your lung tissue
- Bronchial abnormalities, including tumours and strictures
Book your private MRI scan with Pall Mall today.
Need for imaging of bones and soft tissue
Issues affecting the bone and soft tissue can disrupt your daily activities and cause a significant amount of pain and discomfort. The sooner they are investigated, the sooner a treatment plan can be put in place to support healing.
An MRI can be used to detect a wide range of abnormalities and conditions:
- Injuries, such as fractures or ligament, tendon or cartilage tears
- Tumours
- Inflammatory disease
- Bone marrow disease
- Congenital abnormalities
- Osteonecrosis
Compared to traditional bone scans, an MRI is more effective at detecting the presence of a cancerous tumour in or around the bones. The scan is able to produce an accurate picture of the tumour, including the size and even the type of tissue it comes from. This can help to catch the disease at an early stage and prevent it from spreading further.
Are you suffering from ongoing joint pain?
An MRI scan can also be used to diagnose degenerative joint problems, such as arthritis. Compared to ultrasounds and X-rays, an MRI can provide a more detailed image of any damage to the body's internal structures. The radiographer will be looking for a variety of indications, including damage to the cartilage, increased bone density, or any excess swelling of fluid around the joint.
Arthritis can be caused by a number of factors, ranging from an injury to natural wear and tear or certain inflammatory conditions. There are two main forms of arthritis: osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). OA is caused by damage to the cartilage that covers the joints, while RA is an autoimmune disorder.
Although often associated with older generations, this is a common condition and can affect people of all ages. Living with arthritis can be extremely challenging and it is important to get the right support.
What are the signs and symptoms of arthritis?
- Joint pain
- Any feelings of tenderness or stiffness around the joints
- Inflammation
- Restricted movement
- Red skin over the affected joint that is warm to the touch
- Weakness or muscle wasting
What happens next?
At Pall Mall, we are with you every step of the way. Following your scan, you will receive a report explaining the results and whether any further testing or consultations are required. Your radiologist will be able to assess the extent of your arthritis, taking into account your symptoms and medical history.
We offer quick and efficient private rheumatology services for both adults and children. With access to an expert in the field, these consultations are designed to support you with symptom management and to help you regain your quality of life. Depending on the stage and severity of the condition, there are several treatments available, including medication, surgery, or physical therapy. Although there is no cure for arthritis, the goal of your tailored treatment plan is to alleviate any pain, limit inflammation, and ensure joint function.
You may even be able to manage your arthritis with certain lifestyle changes:
- Regular exercise to mobilise the joints
- A healthy and varied diet
- Using an ice pack to ease any pain or swelling
Sometimes, even carrying out the simplest of tasks can be difficult. We would recommend making a few modifications at home. These can include installing a handrail to help you navigate the stairs or using electric equipment to help with cooking.
Access to revolutionary healthcare is just a phone call away:
When it comes to treatment options for injury and joint problems, invasive surgery isn't always the best way forward. It can be a daunting procedure with a long recovery process. At Pall Mall we offer regenerative medicine in the form of stem cell therapy. This advanced and more natural approach to recovery can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, such as osteoarthritis and Achilles tendon tears.
Book your private MRI scan with Pall Mall today.
Need for imaging of heart and blood vessels
Feeling nervous is perfectly normal and being fully informed can help you to feel more confident on the day. If you have any questions or concerns ahead of your appointment, please give us a call. We know that medical terms can be tricky to get your head around - your radiographer will take the time to explain the procedure in detail. At Pall Mall, we put the patient at the heart of everything we do and providing clear information is fundamental to our duty of care.
We always encourage our patients to bring along a family member or friend for extra support, although they may not be able to stay with you during the scan itself.
To make the process a little easier, our experts have created a simple checklist for you to follow on the day of your MRI scan:
- Remember to remove any piercings.
- Do not wear anything metal, including glasses, watches, hearing aids, and jewellery.
- Please inform your radiographer if you have any metal objects inside of your body. These may include a pacemaker, metal plate, or staples from a recent surgery.
Need for imaging of heart and blood vessels
A cardiac MRI scan is used to investigate issues with the heart, these can include:
- Congenital heart disease
- Heart muscle conditions, such as cardiomyopathy
- Damage to your heart muscle, if you've experienced a heart attack or have been diagnosed with heart failure
- Heart valve disease
This type of scan can also be used to investigate any problems being caused by the blood supply to your heart:
- Coronary heart disease
- Reduced blood flow, potentially causing chest pain (angina)
Heart disease, also referred to as cardiovascular disease, is more common than you might think and can lead to life-changing complications, such as a heart attack or stroke. At Pall Mall, we are passionate about offering expert guidance around general wellbeing and helping our patients to stay informed about their healthcare.
Although there are certain factors that can increase the risk of heart disease, including age, smoking, and high cholesterol, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help to keep your heart and blood vessels in a good condition. Awareness is key and even the smallest change can make a big difference to your overall state of health.
Booking yourself for a health screening can help to identify potential risk factors and detect any heart abnormalities at an early stage. We offer a selection of screenings, ranging from our classic Wellman and Wellwomen to our Ultimate Health Screen.
What are the signs and symptoms of heart disease?
- Issues with the chest, including pain, pressure, or tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Pain or a feeling of numbness, weakness, or coldness in the arms or legs
- Any pain in the neck, jaw, throat, top of the tummy or back
An MRA, or magnetic resonance angiogram, is a type of scan that helps to detect issues with your blood vessels. Compared to a standard MRI, an MRA can provide a more detailed image of the smaller blood pathways running between your kidneys, brain, and legs. In some instances, the contrast dye may be used to identify any blockages.
An MRA can be used to investigate multiple problems, including:
- Signs of heart disease
- Aneurysm
- Aortic coarctation, caused by a narrowing of the aorta
- Potential causes of a stroke
- Narrowing or blockage of blood vessels in the arms or legs
- Aortic dissection, caused by bleeding in the wall of the aorta
- Renal artery stenosis, caused by a narrowing of the vessels in the kidneys
Where is the aorta located in the body?
Your aorta is essentially an artery that pumps oxygen-rich blood around your body. It begins in the left side of your heart and extends into the chest and abdomen. There are several potential conditions and diseases that can affect the aorta. Left unchecked, they can lead to further complications such as kidney failure, internal bleeding, or a stroke.
Book your private MRI scan with Pall Mall today.
Need for imaging of muscles and tendons
An MRI can be used to diagnose a variety of issues affecting muscles and tendons. Providing detailed information on the location and severity, the scan can help to guide treatment and rehabilitation plans.
Leaving your injuries untreated can mean your muscles are not properly healed and are considerably weaker, resulting in additional strain or further injury to other parts of the body. It may also lead to permanent muscle damage or the degradation of tendons. In more serious cases, it can cause a condition that affects the kidneys, with potentially life-threatening complications.
The muscle and tendon injuries that can be investigated with an MRI include:
- Muscle strain
- Tendon tear
- Tendonitis, caused by an inflammation of the tendon
- Rotator cuff tear
- Ligament tear
The scan can also be used to detect other associated issues, which may cause similar symptoms, like nerve compression.
What are the signs and symptoms of muscle strains?
Strains can affect muscles and tendons and are an incredibly common injury, typically occurring in the lower back, calves, and hamstrings. The injury can range from overstretching a muscle or tendon to a partial or complete tear. The more severe strains may require surgical treatment.
The symptoms can vary depending on the level of the strain:
- Pain or tenderness
- Inflammation or swelling
- Redness
- Limited range of motion
- Weakness
Some patients may feel an intense, stabbing pain that worsens when attempting to move the muscle. Others will experience a slight twinge at the time of injury, followed by some tenderness.
While milder muscle strains can usually be treated at home, remember the acronym R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compression, and elevation), others can worsen over time. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, or if the area starts to become numb or tingly, it is important to get the injury investigated.
Booking a private MRI scan will fast-track your results and provide accurate information about the extent of your injury, so you can return to your day-to-day activities in no time at all.
What are the common causes of muscle strains?
Whether you're competing in a sports event or popping to the shops, we use our muscles every day for a wide variety of activities and strains can occur at any time. This can be as simple as lifting a heavy object or forgetting to warm up before a run.
Some of the common causes of muscle strains include:
- Age - As we get older, our muscles tend to lose flexibility and strength. This makes them more vulnerable to injury.
- Trauma - Strains can be caused by everyday accidents or, more frequently, during contact sports.
- Fatigue - If you over-exercise or don't give your muscles enough time to rest, you are more likely to experience an injury.
- Overuse - Although this tends to affect athletes, any repetitive movement can lead to muscle strain, such as moving house.
Muscle strains in sports:
If you are a professional athlete or an avid gym goer, it is important to look after your muscles. Using the right technique and always stretching after exercise can help to prevent injury.
- Poor conditioning - Weaker muscles are more vulnerable. Maintaining a regular exercise routine can help to prevent muscle strains and tears.
- Improper technique - Using the wrong technique or attempting a weighted gym exercise unsupervised can put a large amount of stress on your muscles and increase the risk of injury.
- Cold muscles - Cold muscles are less efficient and more prone to injury than warm muscles. Following a proper warm-up routine before exercise will increase blood flow and reduce the risk.
With increased demands on performance, from an elite level to a recreational pastime, the more pressure you are putting on your body. Sports and exercise-related injuries can put you out of action and prevent you from doing what you love. Once our expert consultants have identified the extent of the strain, we will work with you to create a tailored sports therapy plan. Our leading health practitioners are here to support you on the road to recovery, including a thorough assessment and quality after-care.
Book your private MRI scan with Pall Mall today.
Need for imaging of prostate tissue
For investigating any abnormalities in or around the prostate tissue, we offer a multi-parametric MRI. This scan is an advanced tool that can help with the early diagnosis of prostate cancer. Providing detailed pictures of the prostate and surrounding tissue, the radiographer will be able to analyse the size and spread of the tumour.
Other prostate issues investigated by a multi-parametric MRI can include:
- Signs of infection
- Enlarged prostate
- Congenital conditions
What is the prostate?
The prostate is a small, rubbery gland located just below the bladder and surrounds the first part of the urethra, a tube that carries pee from the bladder to the penis. Along with the seminal vesicles, penis and testicles, it makes up part of the male reproductive system and produces a fluid found in semen. The size of the prostate tends to increase with age.
The prostate is not removed during genital reconstruction surgery, meaning trans women are also at risk, even if they are taking hormones. Non-binary people who were assigned male at birth and some intersex people may also be affected by prostate issues.
How common is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer among men, with 1 in 8 being diagnosed in their lifetime. Although most forms of prostate cancer grow slowly and are confined to the gland itself, others are more aggressive and can spread quickly. It is critical to detect signs of prostate cancer at the earliest possible stage.
What are the signs and symptoms of prostate cancer?
- Frequent urge to urinate, especially during the night
- Difficulty urinating
- Weak flow
- Burning sensation or pain while urinating
- Trouble emptying the bladder
- Blood in urine or semen
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or suspect you have prostate cancer, please reach out to a member of our team today. With no waiting lists to worry about, we can usually book you in for a same-day appointment. Ignoring the signs can lead to the tumour developing to a later stage, decreasing the success rate of treatment.
What are the risk factors?
- Men aged 50 or older are more likely to be affected
- Family history
- Black men are more likely to be affected, with 1 in 4 being diagnosed in their lifetime within the UK
Are there any preventative measures?
- Diet - Eating a balanced diet with reduced trans and saturated fats and a variety of fruits and vegetables can help you to maintain a healthy weight and improve your overall wellbeing.
- Regular exercise - You don't need to be a hardcore marathon runner to increase your daily exercise. Whether you cycle to and from work every day or attend an evening gym class, there are small changes you can make to get your body moving.
- Vitamin D - Most of us don't get enough vitamin D, but it is a vital nutrient that can help to protect against prostate cancer. Exposure to the sun is one of the best and most natural ways to get your daily dose of vitamin D. We would recommend around 10-30 minutes a day. Incorporating vitamin D-rich foods, such as cod liver oil and egg yolks, into your diet will also increase your intake.
While these lifestyle changes can help to lower your risk of prostate cancer, they cannot prevent the disease altogether.
Book your private MRI scan with Pall Mall today.
Need for imaging of breast tissue
A breast MRI is used to detect the presence of breast cancer and other abnormalities. The magnetic field and radio waves capture multiple angles of the breast and can provide a clear picture of soft tissue.
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, an MRI can be used to assess the extent of the tumour and help to inform the next steps for treatment. Breast cancer in women with breast implants or certain types, such as invasive lobular breast cancer, can be difficult to detect with a mammogram or ultrasound - an MRI scan will be able to show any potential signs or small breast lesions.
It is also used as a screening tool for those who are considered at a higher risk. This includes women with a strong family history of breast cancer, women who have hereditary gene changes and women with a breast implant that has potentially ruptured or leaked.
How common is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, affecting thousands of women every year. If caught early, most patients fully recover with treatment.
Breasts come in all shapes and sizes and it can be hard to know what's normal. We always recommend checking your breasts regularly for any new lumps, concerning skin textures or sudden changes in size or shape. If you are unsure what you're looking for, your consultant will be able to support you. You can also check out our guide on how to self-examine your breasts with the help of one of our leading experts, Dr Vadia.
When it comes to breast cancer diagnosis, timing really is everything. If you notice any warning signs or symptoms, please book an appointment as soon as possible.
MRI scans for monitoring treatment:
We understand that patient care doesn't stop after a diagnosis and are passionate about providing exceptional end-to-end support. Our MRI scanning services fulfil the need for the monitoring of treatment progress, including the effectiveness of chemotherapy. This can help to determine whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body and if continuing with chemo is the best option.
Book your private MRI scan with Pall Mall today.
MRI scans for cosmetic breast procedures
As specialists in cosmetic surgery and private healthcare, backed by state-of-the-art medical facilities, our focus is on providing an elite service for all of our patients.
When you choose Pall Mall for your breast augmentation, you will not only receive expert guidance and outstanding results, but you will have access to a post-surgery MRI scan. This is to accurately evaluate the integrity of the implants and to screen for any potential concerns unrelated to the implants. This quality aftercare at our luxury clinic is what distinguishes Pall Mall as a leading professional healthcare provider.
Book your private MRI scan with Pall Mall today.
MRI scans for MMA or UFC fighters
Whether you are a professional athlete or participate in mixed martial arts as a hobby, the level of physical contact puts you at much greater risk of head trauma and even brain damage, as well as other bodily injuries.
Research has shown that repetitive head injuries have been linked to decreased brain volume, impacting aspects such as speech, balance, and cognitive abilities.
At the moment, fighters only need to undergo one MRI scan during their career. At Pall Mall, we want to provide you with peace of mind and ensure you are prepared, so you can continue doing what you love as safely as possible. As symptoms can be minimal or delayed, receiving more regular scans can help to detect early signs of trauma.
Email us at GP@pallmallmedical.co.uk now to find out about our special MMA/UFC sports packages!
Book your private MRI scan with Pall Mall today.
End-to-end service
Healthcare and support beyond your MRI scan
After your scan, you will receive a report from your radiologist explaining your results in detail. If you have any questions about the report itself, please get in touch.
If your radiologist doesn't discover anything abnormal in the images, your MRI scan will be deemed normal. If there are any areas of concern, you will be guided through the next steps for treatment. This may include further testing or consultations.
We put you at the heart of everything we do
We put the patient at the heart of everything we do.
Pall Mall is cosmetic surgery care owned and led by doctors –which means care without compromise. We’re driven by how best we can deliver what will make you feel great about yourself – from your first call right through to total, attentive aftercare.
- Care Quality Commission Regulated.
- State-of-the-art facilities.
- No waiting lists.
- Rated 4.95 by our patients.
- No referrals required.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Our expert team are always hand to help, advise and arrange appointments with our specialist consultants.
What is an MRI Scan?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners are used to generate detailed images of tissue and bones within the body. This is done using magnetic and radio waves, meaning that there is no exposure to radiation like in other types of radiological scan. An MRI scan can look at many different areas, from larger organs like the brain to blood vessels and muscles. Each MRI scan usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the number of areas of the body being examined.
An MRI scanner will be a large tube or tunnel you lie inside. It doesn’t hurt, and in most cases, you don’t have to be sedated for the scan. To achieve the best images, you will be asked to remain as still as possible.
What can an MRI be used for?
MRI scans can generate multi-dimensional images at any angle from the body making them an essential diagnostic tool. Some of the common uses for this type of scanner include:
- Examining the spinal cord to identify back problems and trapped nerves
- Examining the knee’s, hip or shoulders to identify bone & joint problems
- Detecting the presence of tumours in the brain and other parts of the body
- Looking at the changes in the brain associated with strokes and dementia
- Examining muscles and abnormal growths to check for ligament damage or muscle damage
- Heart abnormalities
- Soft tissue problems
- Brain & Body Screening (an alternative to a health screen)
- Brain and body MRI scans
Do you offer any packages?
Many people opt for our advanced brain and body MRI scan Package as it provides a good overview of your health. Our Medical Director and lead Consultant Radiologist have chosen the 4 key areas of your brain/body to include within this scan. A Brain & Body MRI scan will generate images of your spinal cord, brain, abdomen, pelvis, and arteries all in one session, detecting the presence of potential issues or tissue damage and the diagnosis of any particular symptoms or conditions.
If you would like to extend your scan to include additional areas, this will be an additional cost. To find out exactly what is and is not included in this scan, please visit Imaging T&C's
Worried about Claustrophobia or lying still for long periods of time?
Pall Mall Medical’s MRI scanner is not a large-bore scanner, though our Radiographers are extremely experienced in these situations to help you remain calm & relaxed during the scan. There is a button right next to you that you can press at any time if you are feeling uncomfortable. Sedation can also be given when required – you should request this in advance.
Worried about the cost of a private MRI scan?
Pall Mall Medical now provide the option of finance with AffordIt Now. Spread the cost of your MRI scan with the option of different payback periods and deposit amounts to suit your budget. See if you are eligible for this life-changing service on our medical finance information page.
What are the terms & conditions for a full MRI body scan?
View the full terms and conditions of an MRI Full Body Scan at Pall Mall Medical here.
MMA or UFC fighter - MRI scans
Email us on GP@pallmallmedical.co.uk now to find out about our special MMA / UFC sports packages!
Always here to help, whenever you need us
Our expert team are always here to help, advise and arrange appointments with our specialist consultants.
