CT, MRI, Mammography, Ultrasound and X-ray in Bath

The department uses a digital X-ray unit which can perform a wide range of examinations. Digital imaging offers optimised and superior image quality with better visualisation of anatomy, ensuring more accurate diagnosis.

How Can I book an X-Ray: 

An X-ray will be recommended by your GP or Consultant who will complete a referral form. Our X-ray service is available Monday to Friday. Waiting times are usually minimal, with most patients seen on the day of referral. 

We are also able to accept referrals from Osteopaths, Chiropractors and Physiotherapists. 

Magnetic resonance imaging, more commonly known as MRI scanning, is a non-invasive imaging technology that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce accurate, detailed images of the inside of your body to diagnose a variety of conditions and injuries. It can help your doctor to decide what treatment is right for you, and to see how well that treatment is working. 

Why might you need an MRI scan?
An MRI scan can be used to look at most areas of the body, meaning it can help diagnose a range of injuries and conditions. It can also assess the extent or progress of a wide variety of symptoms and conditions. Some of the conditions where an MRI might be recommended are:

• A joint injury, such as a fractured hip
• A soft tissue injury, for example a damaged ligament
• An injury or disease of your internal organs. This includes organs such as your heart, brain, liver, womb, and prostate gland
• A tumour
• Nerve impingement

MRI machines can provide detailed images of the soft tissue within your body. Soft tissues include your muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels. Detailed images can help diagnose a range of conditions and injuries across your body. An MRI scan is a painless procedure so you will not need anaesthetic.

What happens during an MRI scan?
An MRI scanner is a short, tube-like machine that opens at both ends. You will either enter the tube headfirst or feet first depending on the part of your body being scanned. Your radiographer will control the machine using a computer in a different room, but you’ll be able to talk to them through an intercom, and they will be able to see you. You can stop the scan at any time by squeezing the buzzer. You will be able to communicate with your Radiographer throughout the process. The scanner will make a lot of noise at certain times which is normal and shows the MRI scanner is working as it should, to produce detailed images of the inside of your body. You'll be given earplugs or headphones to wear to reduce this sound. You may be able to listen to music depending on what scan you are having. You are welcome to bring your own phone/digital device for the Radiographers to attach to our music system in the control room. The scan lasts for anywhere from 15 to 90 minutes. You will be told at time of booking how long you should expect to be in the scanner for.

The MRI scanner at the Bath Clinic is a wide bore scanner making the experience more tolerable for those who might be a bit claustrophobic. 

 

An ultrasound scan uses high frequency wave sounds to create an image of an organ in the body used to look at all soft tissue structures and blood vessels.  We do not use it to look at bones or the lungs or gastro-intestinal tract in detail. 

How does an ultrasound work?
Our examination is carried out by a Consultant Radiologist. Gel will be applied to the area being looked at. This enables the sensor, which is passed over your skin, to pick up sound waves and an image of the part of the body being scanned is produced. For some procedures you may be asked to fill your bladder by drinking plenty of water. For others, you may be asked not to eat or drink anything for up to four hours before the test. The Imaging Team will give you advice when booking your appointment.

The Imaging Department offers a comprehensive breast imaging service, including Digital mammography, fine needle aspirations, Ultrasound, MRI scans and core biopsy.  Our private breast Radiologists perform all examinations along with our Radiographers. They work cohesively with our Consultant breast surgeons and breast care nurses, ensuring you receive the highest standard of compassion and care.

The NHS Breast Screening programme invite women from the age of 50 to 70 for screenings every 3 years.

You can ask your GP to refer you to us privately for annual screenings for more peace of mind. 

Payment Options
Accessing private healthcare is easy, whether you choose to pay directly or use private medical insurance.

If you are paying for yourself, we can usually offer an upfront cost which you can then choose to pay in full or access one of our easy payment options.

If you have insurance, we can arrange direct settlement with your insurance provider, although you should check in advance to see if your treatment is covered. For more information, visit our private medical insurance page.

When will you get your results?
In most instances, following the completion of your examination, the images will be evaluated by one our Consultant Radiologists. We aim to have reports completed within 48 working hours, although timelines may vary based on the specific imaging speciality type. The report will be sent to your referrer (GP/Consultant), who will be responsible for communicating the results to you.  (We recommend contacting your GP surgery for guidance on obtaining the results, as procedures may differ between practices.)

Please be aware that breast imaging undergoes a dual Radiologist review, potentially extending the reporting time to up to two weeks.

Should you require a copy of your results for consultation with another clinician, or if your referrer wishes to review the scans, we offer the option to securely send your imaging and report directly to the provider through our Image Exchange Portal. Please email us at [email protected] to request this service.