Imaging

Our imaging department offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and interventional procedures to support all aspects of clinical management. We use some of the latest imaging equipment and techniques to support our clinical teams in the diagnosis and treatment of the full range of medical problems.

Contact us

0121 685 4135

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

MRI is a type of scan that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. An MRI scanner is a large tube that contains powerful magnets. You lie inside the tube during the scan. An MRI scan can be used to examine almost any part of the body, including the:

• brain and spinal cord
• bones and joints
• breasts
• heart and blood vessels
• internal organs

The results of an MRI scan can be used to help diagnose conditions, plan treatments and assess how effective previous treatment has been.

What to expect

You should have received and completed a safety questionnaire to complete before you arrive.

Download the safety questionnaire here.

If you have not completed a satefy questionnaire we will ask you complete one. Please be aware that if you answer 'yes' to any of the questions on the form you should contact us to discuss whether you are suitable to receive an MRI.

If you are suitable for an MRI, you will be asked to remove all metallic items and if necessary, change in to a hospital gown. We'll provide a safe space for your valuable items, although we advise you not to bring valuable items with you. A radiographer will check your safety questionnaire and explain the MRI procedure.

Find out more about what to expect when having an MRI (link to leaflet)

Due to the strong magnetic field some people may not be suitable for scanning by MRI, including those with a:

• Heart pacemaker
• Artificial heart valve
• Metal fragments in the eye, head or body
• Aneurysm clips (these are metal clips inserted during some operations, especially of the blood vessels in the brain)
• Or you suspect you may be pregnant or are in the first three months of pregnancy

MRI Arthrogram

X-ray

An X-ray is a quick and painless procedure commonly used to produce images of the inside of the body. It's a very effective way of looking at the bones and can be used to help detect a range of conditions.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound scan, sometimes called a sonogram, is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of part of the inside of the body. An ultrasound scan can be used to monitor an unborn baby, diagnose a condition, or guide a surgeon during certain procedures.
A small device called an ultrasound probe is used, which gives off high-frequency sound waves.
You can't hear these sound waves, but when they bounce off different parts of the body, they create "echoes" that are picked up by the probe and turned into a moving image. This image is displayed on a monitor while the scan is carried out.

CAT / CT scan (Computerised Tomography)

A computerised tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body. CT scans are sometimes referred to as CAT scans or computed tomography scans. They're carried out by our specially trained radiographers.

Out-of-hours cover

Please note: the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital has a Service Level Agreement with University Hospitals Birmingham (UHB) for the provision of emergency out-of-hours diagnostic services. If you wish to refer, please contact UHB directly.