MRI and CT scans
When ultrasound is not the right test, we arrange MRI or CT through our network of partner imaging centres. Your scan is reported by a Lanthorn consultant radiologist.
- Price
- MRI from £350CT from £500
- Duration
- MRI 20 to 40 minutesCT a few minutes
- Where
- A partner imaging centre
- Report
- Usually within 24 hoursOf your images being received
Who it's for
When ultrasound is not the right test
MRI and CT are for patients whose consultant has recommended further imaging after an ultrasound, people with a referral letter from their own doctor, and self-referring patients after a conversation with one of our consultants.
MRI
MRI scans
MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of soft tissues, joints and internal organs. It does not use radiation. It is particularly good at showing muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and nerves, and is widely used for the brain and spine.
An MRI scan can be used to assess:
- Joint, tendon or ligament injury
- Spinal disc injury, degeneration or nerve compression
- Brain and spinal cord conditions
- Inflammation or infection of bone, soft tissue or organs
- Solid abdominal organ or bowel disease
CT
CT scans
CT uses X-rays and computer processing to produce detailed cross-sectional images of organs, blood vessels, bones and soft tissues. It is fast and precise.
A CT scan can be used to assess:
- Conditions affecting the chest, abdomen or pelvis
- Disease of the lungs, liver, kidneys, other organs and bowel
- Bone and joint disease or injury
- Blood vessel problems such as clots or aneurysm
CT uses a small amount of radiation. The exposure is higher than an X-ray but kept as low as possible. The need for a CT scan is always carefully considered beforehand.
What to expect
Your scan
Before
Most scans need no special preparation. You will be asked to remove metal objects for MRI. If contrast is needed, you may be asked about allergies or kidney problems, and for CT you may be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours.
During
You lie on a table that moves into the scanner. MRI is painless but can be noisy. CT is quick, usually lasting only a few minutes.
After
You can return to normal activities straight away. If contrast was given, drink water over the following day.
Who reads your scan
Each scan is reported by a consultant radiologist who specialises in that part of the body.
Once your images are received, our radiologists review them and provide a report, usually within 24 hours.
Prices
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 part | £350 |
| 2 parts | £650 |
| 3 parts | £900 |
| Each additional part | £100 |
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Spine (per part) | £350 |
| Whole spine and sacroiliac joints | £1,000 |
| Brain | £700 |
| Brain with TOF angiography | £800 |
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Pelvis (gynaecological) | £650 |
| Abdomen | £650 |
| Liver | £650 |
| Renal | £650 |
| Adrenals | £750 |
| Pancreas | £650 |
| Prostate | £750 |
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Neck | £700 |
| Sinuses | £700 |
| Face | £700 |
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 part | £500 |
| 2 parts | £700 |
| 3 parts | £850 |
| Each additional part | £150 |
| Coronary calcium score | £600 |
| CT coronary angiogram | £1,500 |
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 view | £90 |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral?
If you have a referral letter, you can submit it and we will be in touch. If not, speak to one of our consultants first.
What is contrast and why is it used?
Some scans use a contrast agent to make certain structures clearer. For MRI it is gadolinium, given into a vein. For CT it may be given into a vein or by mouth. Reactions are rare and usually mild.
Are there any risks with MRI?
MRI does not use radiation. It is not suitable for people with certain metal implants or pacemakers, which is checked thoroughly beforehand.
When will I get my results?
Once your images are received, our radiologists review them and provide a report, usually within 24 hours.
Request a scan
Have a referral? Send it through our referral form. Not sure which scan you need? Ask us and a consultant will advise.