Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body's internal structures. While traditional MRI scans focus on specific parts of the body, a total body MRI scan provides a comprehensive picture of your overall health. In this article, we will explore the benefits and advantages of a total body MRI scan, as well as what you can expect during the procedure.

What is a Total Body MRI Scan?

A total body MRI scan is a comprehensive body scan that can identify potential health problems before symptoms appear. It provides detailed images of the brain, spine, abdomen, pelvis, and heart, allowing doctors to evaluate the health of multiple body parts at once. Total body MRI scans can detect a wide range of health issues, including brain tumours, evidence of a stroke, heart valve abnormalities, spinal degenerative changes, and much more.

Benefits of a Total Body MRI Scan

The benefits of a Total Body MRI scan are numerous, including:

• Early Detection of Health Issues

One of the most significant benefits of a total body MRI scan is that it can identify health issues at an early stage, before symptoms appear. Early detection can lead to earlier intervention, which can be critical in improving outcomes for many diseases, including cancer.

• Comprehensive Evaluation

A total body MRI scan provides a comprehensive evaluation of your health. Unlike other imaging tests that focus on specific areas of the body, a total body MRI scan can evaluate multiple body parts simultaneously. This can help your doctor get a better understanding of your overall health and identify potential health issues that may have been missed with other tests.

• Non-Invasive Procedure

Total body MRI scans are non-invasive, meaning they do not require any incisions or injections. Unlike other imaging tests that may involve radiation, total body MRI scans use powerful magnets and radio waves to produce images. This makes the procedure safer and more comfortable for patients, as there is no exposure to radiation.

Advantages of a Private Total Body MRI Scan

In addition to the benefits listed above, there are several advantages to having a Total Body MRI scan, including:

• Customised Scanning Protocol

Private MRI scan centres like Vista Health offer customised scanning protocols that can be tailored to the patient's individual needs. This means that the scan can be adjusted to focus on specific areas of concern, ensuring that the most accurate and comprehensive information is obtained.

• Faster Results

Private MRI scan centres typically offer faster results than traditional hospital-based imaging centres. At Vista Health, for example, patients can receive their results within 3 working days of their scan, allowing for prompt follow-up care if necessary.

• More Comfortable Environment

Patients can expect a quieter and more calming atmosphere at Private MRI scan centres as they offer a more comfortable and personalised environment than traditional hospital-based imaging centres, as well as amenities such as complimentary refreshments and Wi-Fi.
 

What to Expect During a Total Body MRI Scan

Before the scan, patients will need to remove any metal objects from their body, including jewellery and clothing with metal zippers or buttons. They will also be asked to complete a screening form to ensure that they are not carrying any metal implants, pacemakers, or other devices that may be affected by the magnetic field.

During the scan, the patient will lie on a table that slides into a large, cylindrical machine that creates a magnetic field around the body. The machine then sends radio waves through the body, which interact with the magnetic field and produce detailed images of the internal structures. The entire procedure usually takes between 75-130 minutes, depending on the areas being scanned.

After the scan, patients can return to their normal activities immediately. The radiologist will review the images and provide a report to the referring clinician or NHS GP, who will discuss the results with the patient. If any abnormalities are found, the clinician may recommend additional testing or treatment.

Our MRI Packages

Full-Body MRI Scan and Diagnosis

At Vista Health, we have gold and platinum MRI packages for both private and full-body MRI.

Full Body Gold Package

Body parts scanned include:

• Brain/head
• Abdomen
• Pelvis musculoskeletal
• Spine (whole)

Duration: Approx. 75 Minutes

Full Body Platinum Package

Body parts scanned include:

• Brain/head
• Abdomen
• Pelvis musculoskeletal
• Spine (whole)
• Cardiac (heart)

Duration: Approx. 90 Minutes

If you're interested in getting a total body MRI scan today you can book a Total Body MRI online and get immediate access to our Vista Health clinics. We provide total body MRI scans in over 20 locations across the UK and offer next day appointments and results within 3 working days.

Contact us today and schedule a Total Body MRI Scan - your health matters to us!