The London Bridge Hospital: MRI scans in London and Canary Wharf

The London Bridge Hospital has three top of the range 1.5 T Siemens Symphony Magnet MRI scanners in London. One is situated within the hospital and the other two are at their satellite sites located at Canary Wharf and 31 Old Broad Street, in the city.  The scanner at Old Broad Street is the latest in MRI technology called TIM  (Total Imaging Matrix) which allows whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 

London Bridge Hospital, one of six owned by HCA (Hospital Corporation of America), has established an international reputation for offering the best in diagnostic imaging and private healthcare. They provide the very highest standards of clinical skills and nursing care across a wide range of specialties in a comfortable, newly-refurbished hospital overlooking the River Thames and Tower Bridge.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) services

The staff are fully trained in all aspects of imaging and deliver high quality MRi scans which are reported on by Consultant Radiologists.

What is MRI?

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging and is a means of taking cross-sectional images in any plane of the body. These images are detailed and will clearly demonstrate the body's soft tissues such as muscles, nerves, spinal cord, intervertebral discs, cartilage, ligaments, etc.

The MRI scanner produces these images by placing the patient within a strong magnetic field and then aiming a pulse of radiowaves into the body. The radiowaves are returned from the body and this signal is the basis for producing an image.  This process is completely safe and does not involve any harmful radiation.

How does a MRI scan differ from other types of scans?

With an MRI scan it is possible to take pictures from almost every angle and there is no ionising radiation (X-rays) involved in producing an MRI scan. MRI scans are generally more detailed and certain types of tissues are shown better using MRI than any other imaging modality.

What your scan will involve

Everyone entering the room must fill in a questionnaire giving information on whether they have any metal implants in the body.  Lockers are provided for the safe keeping of valuables, which are not allowed into the scan room.

The MRI scan usually lasts for +/- 30 minutes depending on the area of the body that is being scanned. Sometimes pieces of equipment are placed around or strapped to parts of the body, these are essential and do not cause any discomfort.  During the scan it is vital to remain as still as possible, as motion will lead to the images being blurred and having to be repeated.  During the scan you can communicate via an intercom system and if you are concerned for any reason you can press a panic button.

During the scan loud banging noises will be made by the scanner but you will be provided with earphones or disposable earplugs to protect your ears. Sometimes you will be injected with contrast media (dye).

Is everybody suitable for a MRI Scan?

Practically everyone is suitable for a MRI scan, however there are a few exceptions.

1. If you have a pacemaker
2. If you are pregnant
3. If you have an artificial heart valve (some are safe and others are not, they would need to check the type of valve you have)
4. If you have had intracranial aneurysm clips
5. If you have had a metal foreign object within the eye (you will be sent you for x-rays of your orbits as a safety precaution)
6. If you are extremely claustrophobic

Do I need to prepare for the scan?

There is no special preparation for most MRI scans, you can eat and drink normally and take your usual medication. Patients having abdominal scans will have to fast for 6 hours prior to the examination.

Do I need to give consent to the scan?

Staff will explain the test to you and answer any questions that you may have. The scan will only be carried out with your consent.

How do I get the results?

The results will not be available immediately, as the scans need to be processed and studied by a Consultant Radiologist. The results will be sent to the doctor who referred you for the scan. This will normally take 2-3 working days.

Where can I get a scan?

London Bridge Hospital

London Bridge Hospital offers a wide range of highly specialised medical, surgical and diagnostic services and attract many world-class doctors from leading London teaching hospitals. The hospital undertakes outpatient, day case and inpatient treatment for a wide range of specialties.

31 Old Broad Street

31 Old Broad Street is a unique, private medical centre developed and supported by London Bridge Hospital, offering a complete range of outpatient diagnostic and treatment services in a highly convenient location for anyone working within the City of London.

Consultations are supported by a range of diagnostic services, state-of-the-art equipment and specialist professionals in a comfortable and discreet environment, with the flexibility of an appointment at a time convenient to the patient.

Docklands Healthcare

This Canary Wharf satellite diagnostic centre provides MRI, x-ray, ultrasound and mammography services to the local transient and community populations. This facility is clinically supported by the London Bridge Hospital.

Email: info@lbh.hcahealthcare.co.uk

Web: www.londonbridgehospital.com

         www.31oldbroadstreet.co.uk

         www.docklandshealthcare.com