X-Rays, MRI and Ultrasound Scans

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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an innovative technique that provides images of the body in many different planes. The images generated vary according to the tissues examined and reflect their physical and chemical properties. It is non-invasive and involves no exposure to ionising radiation. Generally, a scan takes an average of 30 minutes. However, the exact duration will depend on which area of the body is being examined and whether more than one area is to be scanned.

An X-Ray examination involves positioning the area of your body that is going to be examined between a tube that produces X-Rays and a photographic film. X-Rays pass through your body, and are absorbed by the tissues they pass through. Different parts of the body absorb different amounts of X-Rays depending on how thick (dense) they are. In the final image, dense structures such as bone appear white and less dense structures such as the lungs appear black. The radiation received from any single X-Ray is very small, and would be similar to the amount you would be exposed to on a transatlantic flight. However, if you receive many doses of radiation, the effect can build up and be harmful. As a matter of safety, your doctor will only ask you to have an X-Ray examination when there is no other way to find out the information. Unborn children are at greater risk from being exposed to X-Rays because they are still developing. For this reason, routine X-Ray examinations may not be performed on women who could be pregnant or get pregnant within 28 days of a normal menstrual period. If you are, or suspect that you may be pregnant, please tell the radiographer before the X-Ray is carried out.

An Ultrasound Scan is a test that involves taking pictures of the body using sound waves. Ultrasound can be used to look at all soft tissue structures and blood vessels. Pulses of ultrasound are sent through the skin into your body which then echo (‘bounce back’) from the various parts of the body, creating an image. The scan is carried out by a radiologist or ultrasonographer and the images are recorded and interpreted in order to make a diagnosis.