Common MRI and x-ray queries answered by Nuffield Hospital doctor
Dr Andrew Redfern answers the public’s questions about medical imaging
MEDICAL imaging, also known as radiology, is the field of medicine in which medical professionals like radiographers, sonographers and radiologists look at various types of images (like x-ray, CT and MRI scans) of the body for diagnostic or treatment purposes. These procedures are generally noninvasive and offer essential information which forms part of a diagnosis or information showing how your body is responding to treatment.
There are a whole range of medical imaging options available for different situations. However, certain misperceptions about radiology treatments prevail, so let’s look at the facts with Dr Andrew Redfern, Consultant Radiologist at the Nuffield Hospital Exeter.
Is radiation from diagnostic imaging harmful?
Although it is true that there are dangers associated with overexposure to radiation, the radiation used in diagnostic imaging procedures is minimal – too little to cause problems, says Dr. Andrew Redfern. In fact, you are usually exposed to the same level of radiation as a chest x-ray when you fly long-haul in an airplane. We are all exposed to radiation every day of our lives, from the foods we eat to natural earth materials (such as water) to natural radioactive materials in our bodies.
Radiology equipment is regularly inspected to make sure it is working optimally. This applies to x-ray and CT equipment. You will not, therefore, be at any risk of being exposed to potentially dangerous radiation levels.
Does all scanning technology expose people to radiation?
There are several radiology methods that do not expose you to any radiation. One of those is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses magnets rather than radiation. The magnets work with radio waves, rather than radiation, to create pictures of structures inside the body.
Another non-radiation scanning technology is ultrasound. This method uses sound waves that are sent in real-time to a nearby computer, which translates how the waves move through the body into images. Both provide detailed and useful information.
Does an MRI scan present any other risk?
Some people are worried about an MRI as they feel it may be claustrophobic. Modern scanners are however reasonably comfortable and the one we have here at the Exeter Nuffield is bigger than others and surprisingly spacious. If you feel nervous or uncomfortable you can seek support from the radiographer who can take things at your pace. Depending on the type of scan, you may be able to listen to music to help stay relaxed while the scan is happening. There is also a mirror so you can see outside of the scanner which many find reassuring. Anyone entering the scan room is carefully checked to ensure there is no risk to them from the magnetic field.
Can I have an MRI if I’m pregnant?
There is no evidence that MRI during pregnancy causes any harm to the foetus or the mother. MRI has been used for clinical purposes with pregnant women for more than 30 years.
I’ve heard it may be painful to have an MRI if I have a tattoo?
Some tattoo inks contain iron which can react with the radio waves used by the MRI machine causing irritation or possibly swelling. However, most tattoos do not cause any problems; even if they do, they tend to be minor and temporary. If you have a tattoo, let the radiographer know, and depending on the size or position of it they may place a cool pad on it prior to your scan to minimise any discomfort.
Exeter Nuffield offers a variety of different types of medical imaging and very short wait times. These include: X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasounds, endoscopy, mammogram, computerised tomography (CT). We are able to accept diagnostic referrals from your GP and costs range upwards from £128 for a basic x-Ray and £600 for a CT or MRI scan. For more information about Nuffield Hospital Exeter, head to www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/exeter or call 01392 247059. Go to www.nuffieldhealth.com/ tests-scans/imaging-and-radiology for more information about medical imaging.