Neuroimaging

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, we specialise in using this unique technology to create the highest quality imaging of the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system, providing images which can accurately and reliably show many disease processes and injuries. We develop and use specialised imaging techniques which show the signs of stroke and intracranial bleeding, brain tumours and infections, dementia and cognitive disorders, epilepsy, movement disorders, multiple sclerosis and demyelinating disease, CSF circulation impairment and hydrocephalus, neuro-metabolic and neuro-muscular disorders, and spinal diseases and many more.

We are also experienced in using our advanced 3 Tesla (3T) MRI scanners to collect information using many techniques which are not commonly available in other MRI centres:

• Functional MRI (fMRI) and Diffusion Tractography to locate specific functions in the brain and neural pathway.
• MR Perfusion to assess blood perfusion in the brain and how it may be altered in neurological disease
• MR Spectroscopy to assess metabolic changes in the brain
• MR Neurography to assess the peripheral nerves in the body for signs of peripheral nerve disease

We can offer these advanced techniques because we have invested in the very latest scanners and post-processing tools (including artificial intelligence) to provide the best images to our team or highly experienced radiology consultants. Furthermore, our scanners are wider, more spacious, and more comfortable than most other MRI scanners on the market, meaning you can expect a greater level of comfort.

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.

Sometimes, we may need to give you an injection of contrast dye during your MRI scan. If this might be necessary for your scan, we will provide you with an information leaflet about contrast dye when you make an appointment and discuss this with you again when you arrive.

In most cases, you can go home as soon as your scan is finished, if you feel well enough to do so. If you have had a contrast dye injection during your scan, we may ask you to wait for 15 minutes before you leave the department. This is to ensure that there is no sign of an allergic reaction to the contrast dye.

You can 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.