Did you know there’s a way to have an MRI scan if you are claustrophobic?
WHEN you think about an MRI scan what comes to mind? Is it an image of a closed tunnel that fills you with dread?
The European Scanning Centre (ESC) in Cardiff prides itself on its friendly and relaxed environment.
The centre, situated in Cardiff Gate Business Park, contains the only open and upright MRI scanner in Wales and has been carefully designed with the patient’s comfort in mind.
There are many reasons why people are unable to use a conventional closed scanner – it may be because they are claustrophobic, bariatric or have a physical difficulty.
Melanie Jones, radiographer and centre manager at ESC, has worked with MRI for more than 30 years and has witnessed how MRI imaging is being used more frequently.
Consequently, as more people face the prospect of an MRI, this has created a cohort of people who can’t fit in or don’t want to use a conventional MRI scanner.
European Scanning Centre saw this problem and decided to create an environment which would achieve the same result as a closed MRI, but in a more comfortable setting.
The centre has a Facebook page and website, which explain the process as well as images of patients undergoing scans.
The team at ESC would be happy to give you a tour of the centre and discuss how the scanner works; and staff are prepared to deal with any queries or concerns.
Appointments are not restricted to a short time period.
The centre allows up to an hour for each examination, with the option of watching TV or listening to the radio during the scan – a relaxed and comfortable patient allows for more accurate diagnostic imaging.
Once the scan is complete, results are available within 48 hours.
■ For more information or to book an appointment, please call the centre on 029 2073 1654.