MRI Neurography

MR Neurography is a specialist imaging technique which focuses exclusively on visualizing nerves and neural structures in exquisite detail. Our state-of-the-art MRI Neurography service goes beyond traditional imaging methods, enabling us to identify and assess nerve-related issues with exceptional accuracy.

MRI Neurography is a specialised imaging technique that is used to visualise and evaluate the peripheral nerves in the body. It provides detailed images of the nerves, helping to diagnose and assess a variety of nerve-related conditions.

MR Neurography is commonly used for:

Led by a team of highly skilled radiologists and radiographers, our facility is equipped with the latest MRI technology optimised for neurography. This allows us to capture high-resolution images that reveal even the most intricate nerve pathways, helping diagnose a range of conditions including nerve entrapment, neuropathies, and nerve tumours.

What sets our specialist MRI Neurography service apart is not only our cutting-edge technology, but also our commitment to patient comfort and well-being. We understand that undergoing medical tests can be a source of anxiety, so we've designed our environment to be warm, calming, and patient-centred. Our compassionate staff will guide you through the process, ensuring you feel at ease every step of the way.

The length of time MR neurography takes will take depend on the body parts being scanned and the number of images required.   When we receive referrals for this type of imaging, we discuss each case with our neuroradiologist to devise a scan protocol which will provide you with the answers you and your doctor need.  With this protocol, we will be able to let you know how long your scan will take.

Once our radiographers have completed a safety screening questionnaire with you, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any metal objects which may be unsafe in the scanner and could interfere with the scan.

You will need to lie down on the MRI table, and the radiographer will carefully position you to ensure the area of interest is properly aligned.  We will use pads and cushions to make sure you are as comfortable as possible.

The MRI machine uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body. During the procedure, you'll need to remain as still as possible to ensure clear images. The machine may produce loud tapping or knocking sounds.  These are normal but to protect your hearing, you will be provided with earplugs.

Different imaging sequences are used to capture various aspects of the nerve structures. To minimise motion artefacts in the images, you might be asked to hold your breath for short periods during image acquisition. Minimising movement helps ensure the clarity of the images.

MR Neurography is non-invasive and generally painless. However, lying still for an extended period might be uncomfortable for some patients. If you experience any discomfort or anxiety, the team will do their best to accommodate your needs.

In some circumstances, a contrast dye injection is required part way through the scan. This is very routine and nothing to worry about. For more information about contrast dye injections, read our Patient Information Leaflet.

Once the images are acquired, they will be reviewed by a neuro-radiologist, who is a medical doctor specialised in interpreting medical images. The radiologist will analyse the images to identify any abnormalities or issues with the nerves and issue a detailed report to your doctor.

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.   They will then discuss the results with you and any treatment you may need.  Owing to the complexity of MR neurography, it is common for reporting to take 1-2 weeks.

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.