3 Tesla (3T) Orthopaedic MRI

‘3T’ stands for 3 Tesla, and refers to the strength of the magnet used within the MRI scanner. Standard clinical MRI scanners typically have a strength of 1.5T and are capable of producing very good images for diagnostic purposes. 3T scanners are twice as powerful and capable of producing significantly clearer images, enabling more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. This is particularly important when examining the structures of the brain, spine and peripheral nervous system.

As well as being twice as powerful, our state of the art 3T scanner is faster and capable of producing images more quickly, which means less time being scanned. Our scanner, which is one of the most advanced on the market, also makes the experience more comfortable thanks to a wider and shorter bore, helping patients who are anxious to feel more comfortable about going into the scanner. We also use innovative surface coils which are light and flexible and replace the older coils which were heavy and restrictive. We have invested in the very latest technology so that we are able to provide the best quality scans while providing superior levels of comfort to every one of our patients.

3T MRI scans are used when more detailed pictures of the bones and soft tissues are required to help diagnose and monitor a wide range of conditions. They are particularly useful for identifying brain and spinal cord conditions but can also help identify issues related to back pain or soft tissue abnormalities, such as tumours.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the soft tissues of the human body. In Queen Square, our state of the art MRI scanner delivers twice the scanning strength of the more common MRI systems, producing greater detail on our images and more information to guide your doctor. We use new techniques to allow us to achieve information that may otherwise remain invisible, demonstrating even the smallest areas of anatomy in superb detail.

Our MRI scans are interpreted by specialist consultant radiologists, who will provide a detailed clinical report to your doctor, supporting better decision-making about what treatment, if any, is more appropriate for you.

We aim to make your MRI scan experience as simple and straight forward as possible. We provide same day appointments at times that are convenient to you and aim to publish you report within one working day, allowing you to arrange your specialist follow up without delay. In partnership with our nearby Chenies Mews Imaging Centre, we are even able to provide this MRI service to patients with cardiac pacemakers, who would likely be unable to have MRI scans at other centres.

The length of time an MRI scan will take depends on the body part being scanned and the number of images required. Scan time typically ranges from as little as 10 minutes up to an hour and a half. Your radiographer will be able to advise on this before yours starts.

You won’t feel anything while the scan is happening but MRI scanners are noisy – this is completely normal and just means the scanner is working as it’s meant to and you’ll be given ear guards to wear. It’s important to keep as still as possible during the scan, however you’ll be provided with an emergency buzzer which you can press at any time if you need to.
In some circumstances, a contrast dye injection is required partway through the scan. This is very routine and nothing to worry about. For more information about contrast dye injections, read our Patient Information Leaflet.

MRI scans are not suitable for everyone. The strong magnetic field associated with the scanner may interfere with certain medical implants and pose a potential safety risk if not managed appropriately. To make sure MRI is safe for you, our radiographers will perform safety screening checks with you before your scan using a safety questionnaire. Everyone entering the scanning room must complete one of these safety questionnaires so that we can sure that there is no risk to you or anyone else.

An MRI scanner also creates a lot of noise. Although this noise is normal and nothing to be worries about, we will provide you with earplugs and headphones to protect your ears.

If your scan is particularly long, or involves certain types of ‘imaging sequence’, you may find that you feel warm or experience pins and needles or twitching in your muscles. This is normal and will subside shortly after your scan. We will use pads to position you correctly and safely in the scanner and will ask you not to cross your arms or legs. This will reduce these effects. We will also monitor you throughout your scan and give you a call button to hold, so that you can stop the scan at any time if you feel unwell or are unable to tolerate the scan.
Currently, there is no evidence of any other risks associated with MRI scans, or any evidence of long-term or serous effects.

In most cases, you can go home as soon as your scan is finished, if you feel well enough to do so. You can also eat and drink as normal and resume your usual activities straight after the scan.

The results of your scan will not be given to you immediately. Your MRI pictures will be studied by a radiologist, and the results will be sent to the doctor who referred you, typically within one working day. They will then discuss the results with you and any treatment you may need.

Before you leave, you will be given secure access to your own electronic health portal which will allow you to view, share and download your scans at any time in the future.