MRI scans are used to examine and identify a number of conditions including chronic migraines, back pain, and torn ligaments
At Sarum Road Hospital in Winchester, you can access private MRI scans in a calm, professional environment.
You can typically get access to available appointments promptly, with your scan carried out by experienced radiographers using advanced MRI technology. Your scan images will be reported and assessed by highly qualified consultant radiologists. Your results will then be sent to your referring doctor or consultant, who will explain what they mean and discuss next steps.
Choosing a private MRI scan in Winchester allows you to be seen without long delays, often at a time that suits you. Our team will maintain clear communication throughout your investigation, so you can get the healthcare you need with ease.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive scan that uses powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of the inside structures of your body. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, an MRI scan does not use ionising radiation.
This type of imaging helps further investigate symptoms, confirm a diagnosis, and plan treatment options for a wide range of conditions affecting your joints, spine, brain, and internal organs.
During an MRI scan, you will lie on a moving bed that slides into a large, tunnel-shaped scanner machine. The scanner uses strong magnets and radio waves to take detailed pictures of the inside of your body. The scan is painless. However, it can be a bit noisy with loud tapping or thumping sounds, although ear protection is usually provided.
An attached computer turns this information into clear images, which can be viewed as thin slices or built into a 3D picture. You will need to lie still throughout the scan while the images are taken to ensure that the scan is clear enough to review.
MRI is particularly useful for looking at soft tissues, including:
Due to MRI scans showing soft tissues in such fine detail, it can help diagnose and assess the following concerns:
Your doctor or consultant will recommend an MRI scan if they feel it is the most appropriate way to investigate your symptoms or monitor a known condition. They will explain why the scan has been recommended and how the results will help guide your care.
Your MRI scan at Sarum Road Hospital is designed to be as straightforward and comfortable as possible. Our radiology team will explain each step and support you throughout your appointment.
On the day of your scan:
When you arrive at the hospital, you will be welcomed at reception and directed to the imaging department. Your details will be checked, and you may be asked to complete or review a safety questionnaire.
You will usually be asked to remove jewellery, watches, hair clips, hearing aids, and any clothing with metal zips, fasteners, or underwires, as metal can interfere with the magnetic field. You may be given a hospital gown to wear, if necessary.
Your radiographer will talk you through the procedure, confirm which area is being scanned, and answer any questions you may have beforehand. If you are feeling anxious or worried about enclosed spaces, let them know so they can offer reassurance and support.
You will lie on a padded table, usually on your back. Cushions and supports may be used to help you stay comfortable and still. The part of your body being scanned will be positioned in the centre of the scanner.
The table will move slowly into the scanner. You will hear a series of loud tapping, knocking, or buzzing sounds as the machine takes images. Earplugs or headphones are provided to reduce the noise. It is important to keep as still as possible, so the images are clear. Your radiographer will be in a nearby control room, but they can see you at all times and can communicate with you via an intercom. You will have a call bell so you can alert them if you need to stop.
For some scans, you may be given an injection of contrast dye through a small cannula in your arm. This helps highlight certain tissues or blood vessels. The need for contrast will be discussed with you in advance.
Most MRI scans take between 20 and 60 minutes, depending on which part of your body is being examined and how many image sequences are needed. Once the scan is complete, the table will move out of the scanner and you can get changed and leave the department.
In most cases, you can return to your usual activities straight after your appointment, unless you have been advised otherwise.
For many MRI scans, only minimal preparation is required. However, certain scans may have specific instructions. When your appointment is booked at Sarum Road Hospital, you will be given clear guidance on how to prepare.
Things you can do to help prepare for the scan include:
It is important for you to tell our hospital team in advance if you:
You will be asked to complete a safety questionnaire covering these points. In some cases, additional checks or documentation may be needed to confirm that your implant or device is compatible with MRI.
If you feel very anxious about the scan, speak to your referring doctor or the hospital team in advance. They can discuss options to help you feel more comfortable, which may include additional explanation, support from staff, or adjustments to how the scan is carried out.
MRI is considered a very safe procedure for most people.
It does not use X rays or ionising radiation. Instead, it uses a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency waves that have not shown to cause long term harm at the levels used in clinical scanning.
However, because the scanner uses a strong magnet, an MRI is not suitable for everyone.
An MRI may not be suitable if you experience the following:
Some devices and implants can be affected by the magnetic field used during an MRI due to the metal used to make them. These include certain pacemakers, implanted defibrillators, aneurysm clips, cochlear implants, and older types of joint replacements or metal fragments.
Many newer devices are designed to be MRI compatible, however each case must be assessed individually. Please notify your consultant if you know you have any implanted devices or metalwork they should be aware of.
If you have ever had metal in your eyes or body, for example being exposed to metal shavings from work, you may need an X ray or documentation to confirm it is safe to have an MRI scan.
If you are pregnant, an MRI can be performed if needed, particularly after the first trimester. However, this decision is made on a case by case basis. If you are or might be pregnant, it is important to inform our team before your scan so we can assess your options.
In some cases, a contrast dye (often gadolinium based) is used to improve the clarity of the images during the MRI. This is generally very safe but may not be suitable for people with certain kidney problems or specific allergies. You will be asked about your medical history before any contrast is given.
During the scan itself, you may feel fear of being in a confined space, particularly if you experience claustrophobia. Our Radiography team will monitor you throughout the scan, maintain regular communication, and can stop the scan at any time if necessary.
Completing the safety questionnaire accurately and discussing any concerns you may have beforehand will help ensure that your MRI scan is carried out safely and appropriately.
The cost of a private MRI scan can vary significantly based on factors including the part of the body being examined, whether one or more areas are to be scanned, whether contrast dye will be used, and what symptoms are being investigated.
We recognise that cost is a significant consideration when exploring medical imaging options. If you're curious about how much a private MRI scan costs, contact our team directly and they can provide you with a personalised quote.
Circle Health Group offers competitive, transparent pricing, so you won’t have surprises down the line. If you are interested in spreading the cost of payment for your treatment, we offer monthly payment options over a period of up to five years, with interest-free options available.
If you have private health insurance, most MRI scans are covered when medically necessary. Our patient services team can liaise with your insurer to confirm authorisation.
Sarum Road Hospital in Winchester is part of Circle Health Group, one of the UK’s largest providers of private healthcare. When you choose to go private with Sarum Road Hospital for your MRI scan, you can expect:
MRI scans at Sarum Road Hospital are carried out by experienced radiographers using modern imaging equipment. All scans are analysed and reported by consultant radiologists, helping to ensure a high standard of diagnostic accuracy.
If your MRI scan shows that further tests or treatment are needed, our team can arrange timely referrals to relevant specialists, such as orthopaedic surgeons, neurologists, rheumatologists, or other consultants if needed. This integrated approach allows your care to be coordinated in one place, from initial investigation through to treatment and follow up.
From your first enquiry through to receiving your results, the focus is on patient safety, clear communication, and a reassuring, professional environment.
Booking an MRI scan with us is simple and flexible. Many patients choose private care because of the ease and speed of access – appointments are often available within days, and in some cases on the same day. You can book an MRI with a referral from your GP or specialist, but self-referral is also accepted for many types of scans, meaning you can take control of your healthcare without delay.
When you contact us, a member of our friendly bookings team will confirm the type of scan you need, explain preparation requirements and answer any questions. If you have previous imaging such as X-rays or scans, bringing these with you can help our radiologists give an even more accurate interpretation.
On the day of your appointment, our radiographers will guide you through the entire process, from safety checks related to metal implants or devices, to positioning for the scan, to what you can expect during and after the procedure. If your scan requires contrast dye, this will be discussed with you in advance and administered safely by one of our experienced team members.
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