What are our prices?

The cost of an investigation varies upon the area covered and the intended means of payment. For this reason it is difficult to give a comprehensive price list. We are happy to discuss your requirements and provide a tailored quotation. Please contact us on 01473 279 134.

The cost of the procedure includes a comprehensive radiological report which can be sent to the referrer or directly to the patient.

How dangerous are X rays?

X rays are a form of ionising electromagnetic radiation and can damage the body. Part of the job of the radiologist is to decide upon the best imaging test and if an x ray technique is recommended it will be after careful consideration of the alternatives. Plain films (for example a chest X-ray) involve very small X-ray exposure while CT scans can give quite a high dose. The exact risk is very difficult to quantify but it is estimated that an average single CT scan has a risk of causing a cancer of 1 in 2000. This of course has to be seen in the context of an individuals life time risk of developing cancer of 1 in 3.

I have back ache, will an MRI help diagnose the problem?

Sometimes. MR produces very high resolution images of the spine. However the results obtained often do not correlate with symptoms. Back pain is usually due to wear and tear and symptoms often resolve spontaneously. A normal MR is often very useful particularly when physiotherapy is being considered.MR is especially helpful if there is definite signs of nerve involvement, for example sciatica and leg symptoms. MR does have an important role in excluding serious abnormality.

How long will the test take?

This depends. Simple X rays take a matter of a few minutes, some complex CT and MR studies can take up to an hour. We are happy to respond to any specific queries.

How long will the report take to arrive?

We aim to report the investigation within 1 working day. You or your referrer should receive a copy of the written report within 5 working days.

I’m claustrophobic, will I cope with an MR scan?

Claustrophobia is a problem with MR scans as the hole into which the couch passes is quite small. For some scans your entire body is within the machine. It is possible for somebody to be in the room with you and some patients benefit from sedation taken before the study.

I have heard about ‘whole body screening’ using CT or MR?

Some companies do offer this service. Our feeling is that the evidence to support this is not sufficiently strong to justify the use of relatively high doses of X rays. These scans often turn up many minor finding that are of no consequence but can be very worrying to the patient. For these reasons we have decided not to offer this service. We are happy to offer an aneurysm screening service (validated for smokers or ex smokers over the age of 65 see http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/uspstf/uspsaneu.htm)

I am worried about ovarian cancer. Is screening possible?

Ultrasound examination of the pelvis (using either a probe on the skin surface or inserted into the vagina) can identify the ovaries. There is research underway to asses the use of ultrasound in the early detection of ovarian cancer. No one test can diagnose this illness with absolute certainty but there is growing evidence that ultrasound is of benefit in the early detection of tumours (See http://www.aicr.org.uk/OvarianCancer.stm ).

What about colonic screening for polyps?

There is evidence that early detection of polyps is of benefit. CT can produce high resolution views of the bowel lining (CT Colography) and most studies now show that it as good as endoscopic techniques for polyps over 1cm in size. The current recommendation is that if you are over 50 and have a first degree relative with a history of bowel polyps or cancer then screening may be beneficial. We are happy to accept referrals for CT colography from your GP.

Some organisations offer ultrasound performed by radiographers/sonographers, what is the difference between this and a consultant opinion from AMI?

Radiographers are professionals trained to obtain high quality images which are usually interpreted by radiologists. They are not doctors but can undergo further training in certain areas such as ultrasound.

Having your scan performed by a radiologist (a medically qualified doctor with at least 5 years postgraduate training in all aspects of medical imaging) means that the result of your investigation can be interpreted in the context of your symptoms.

Rather than just issuing a report on the scan appearances a radiologist, because of their wide clinical background, is able to suggest what treatment options are needed or what further tests would be helpful.