Magnetic Resonance Imaging — the most powerful tool available for soft tissue assessment, reported by our consultant radiologists.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of the inside of the body. Unlike X-ray or CT, it does not use ionising radiation, making it particularly well-suited for repeated examinations and for investigating soft tissues such as the brain, spinal cord, joints, muscles, liver and pelvic organs.
Modern MRI scanners produce images of extraordinary detail. At Bristol Medical Imaging Partners, our consultants use advanced imaging protocols — including multiparametric MRI (mpMRI), diffusion-weighted imaging and dynamic contrast-enhanced sequences — to extract the maximum diagnostic information from every scan.
No radiation: MRI does not use X-rays or any form of ionising radiation. It is safe for the vast majority of patients including pregnant women (from the second trimester) and children.
| Duration | 20 – 60 minutes |
| Radiation | None |
| Contrast dye | Sometimes (gadolinium) |
| Report | 24–48 hours |
| Locations | Spire & Nuffield Bristol |
Endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, ovarian masses, mesh complications and staging of gynaecological cancers.
Endometriosis MRIMultiparametric MRI (mpMRI) for prostate cancer detection, staging, active surveillance and biopsy guidance.
Prostate MRICharacterisation of liver lesions, assessment of cirrhosis, MRCP for bile duct and pancreatic evaluation.
GI imagingJoints, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bone marrow. Particularly valuable for knee, shoulder, hip, spine and foot conditions.
Brain MRI, spinal cord assessment, disc herniation, nerve root compression and demyelinating conditions.
Kidney masses, renal vein involvement, bladder and urinary tract assessment.
Renal imagingYou may be asked to fast for several hours before a contrast-enhanced or abdominal MRI. We will contact you with specific preparation instructions when your appointment is booked. Please inform us of any metal implants, pacemakers or claustrophobia concerns before your appointment.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment. You will be asked to complete a safety questionnaire and change into a hospital gown. Remove all metal objects, jewellery and hairclips. The MRI environment is metal-free for safety.
You will lie on a padded table that slides into the scanner. The machine makes a series of loud knocking and buzzing sounds — ear protection will be provided. Most scans take between 20 and 45 minutes. You will be given a buzzer to alert the radiographer at any time if you feel uncomfortable.
For most MRI scans, you can drive and resume normal activities immediately. If a contrast agent (gadolinium) was used, you may wish to drink extra water. Your images will be reviewed and a formal written report produced by a Consultant Radiologist, typically within 24–48 hours.
The written report is sent securely to you and your referring doctor. It will clearly describe our findings and, where appropriate, make recommendations for further investigation or management.
MRI and metal implants: Most modern joint replacements, dental work and surgical clips are MRI-compatible. However, some implants (certain pacemakers, cochlear implants, aneurysm clips) may be contraindicated. Please always declare any implants at the time of booking so we can check compatibility in advance.
Please note — areas we do not cover: We do not provide MRI of the head (neurological or brain MRI) or MRI of the breast. We also do not perform musculoskeletal MRI. Your GP or specialist can refer you to the appropriate NHS or private service for these scans.