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Most of us do what we can to look after our health and keep our bodies in good working order. However, though we may feel fit and well on the outside, it can be difficult to know how healthy we are on the inside, and whether we’re at risk of developing certain health conditions.
For this reason, investing in health checks, such as a full body MRI scan, can be worthwhile. Analysing key areas, including heart and brain health, full body MRI scans offer a comprehensive overview of health and can spot early signs of several health conditions before symptoms even appear.
With that said, we’ve partnered with Vista Health to look closer at some benefits of full body MRI scans and consider who they may be suitable for.
Vista Health is the UK’s largest independent provider of specialist diagnostic services and the leading independent operator of MRI scanners and other diagnostic technology. They aim to make diagnostic healthcare accessible, affordable, and assuring for patients across the UK. Head over to the Vista Health website to book an appointment in a location near you.
What is a full body MRI scan?
A full body MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan is a non-invasive comprehensive body scan that uses strong magnetic fields to create detailed images of the internal structures. Doctors can use these images to detect abnormalities or signs of health issues.
Full body MRI scans can be used to analyse areas including the head, spine, heart, pelvis, and abdomen. However, it’s worth noting that some areas aren’t covered, such as the hips, breasts, and prostate. You can find more information about what is and is not included in a full body MRI scan on the Vista Health website.
What does a full body MRI scan involve?
A full body MRI scan is a painless, non-invasive procedure. During the scan, patients lie on a table that slides through a large tunnel. The tunnel contains magnets, which rotate to create a magnetic field and form images of your body. It’s important to stay as still as possible during the scan. If you suffer from anxiety or mobility issues, there’s also the option to use an open or upright scanner for some areas of the body.
Before your scan, you’ll need to, where possible, remove any metal objects from your body – including jewellery and clothing with metal buttons or zippers. You’ll also be asked to complete a screening form to confirm any relevant medical history, including whether you have metal implants, pacemakers, or other devices that could be affected by the magnetic field. If you have any such devices, we may need to work with your doctor to ensure we provide the most suitable scan for you, ensuring your safety.
Depending on the examination package you choose, full body MRI scans typically take 60-90 minutes. You’ll be free to return to normal activities immediately after your appointment.
Your radiologist will review the images and you’ll receive a full report (including images) within three days of your scan. If abnormalities are found, you may be recommended additional testing or treatment.
With Vista Health, a full report and scan images will be available to you within three days. You’ll also have access to an optional consultation with one of Vista Health’s private GPs who can explain your results. Head over to the Vista Health website to book an appointment in a location near you.
Affordable diagnostic scans without the wait
Take charge of your health with Vista Health, a leading UK healthcare provider offering fast access to a wide range of diagnostic scans, including full-body MRI scans.
Whether it’s a nagging concern, family history, milestone birthday, or simple curiosity about your health, they’re here to help you gain clarity and peace of mind. Whatever your reason, Vista Health can help.
To book your diagnostic scan or screening appointment, either book online, make an enquiry or call 0330 029 0389.
What are the benefits of having a full body MRI scan?
There are several benefits to having a full body MRI scan. We’ll cover some of these below.
1. Full body MRI scans can help with early detection of a range of health issues
Full body MRI scans can be used to detect a wide range of health issues – from brain tumours to stroke and heart valve abnormalities.
By producing detailed images of body tissues, organs, and the skeletal system, they can be particularly helpful for detecting early signs of health conditions – before symptoms even appear. Plus, because some diseases can affect more than one part of the body, having a full body MRI scan can lead to earlier diagnosis by spotting signs that may otherwise be missed.
We know from research that early diagnosis can make all the difference to disease outcomes and managing the impact of chronic health conditions on daily life. Early detection often means earlier intervention and treatment, before conditions become more serious and life-threatening.
For example, according to Cancer Research UK, more than nine in 10 people with bowel cancer survive their disease for five years or more if diagnosed at the earliest stage. However, this falls to one in 10 people if bowel cancer is diagnosed at the most advanced stage.
According to Vista Health, some health issues that full body MRI scans can help detect include…
- Head and neck – signs of stroke, dementia, tumours, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injuries, and other causes of headaches
- Abdomen – signs of liver diseases, prostate disease, gallstones, and tumours in the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and gallbladder
- Arteries and veins – artery disease, aneurysms (weak spots in blood vessels), blockages of blood vessels, and other signs of heart disease
- Pelvis – evidence of tumours in the uterus, ovaries, and bladder
- Spine – signs of tumours, fractures, pinched nerves, cord compression, and herniated discs
- Bones and joints – abnormalities caused by repetitive or traumatic injuries, bone infections, and tumours in soft tissues or bones
2. Full body MRI scans offer a comprehensive overview of health
Unlike other imaging tests that focus on specific areas of the body, full body MRI scans can analyse multiple body parts in one go – offering a holistic overview of your health.
This can provide both you and your doctor with a clearer understanding of your overall health and spot potential health issues that may have been missed with other tests.
Full body MRI scans can also be helpful if you’re simply interested in knowing more about your body by providing an immediate, big-picture insight into your health.
3. Full body MRI scans are painless and non-invasive
A full body MRI scan is a painless procedure. Because it’s non-invasive and doesn’t use radiation, the NHS considers it one of the safest medical procedures available.
Unlike other diagnostic systems, such as surgeries, biopsies, X-rays, and CT scans, full body MRI scans don’t require injections, incisions, or radiation – making them more comfortable for patients, too.
Plus, most modern MRI scanners are fitted with a wider tunnel, which can be helpful for anyone suffering from claustrophobia.
4. Full body MRI scans can offer peace of mind
Many health conditions become more common later in life, so it’s normal to want to keep tabs on your wellbeing.
Because full body MRI scans can help detect potential health issues before they become serious, they can offer peace of mind. This can be particularly true if you’ve been experiencing symptoms or have doubts about a specific area of your health.
While there are various health tests available, by analysing more than one body part at once, full body MRI scans can be effective for building a clearer overall picture of your health.
Affordable diagnostic scans without the wait
Take charge of your health with Vista Health, a leading UK healthcare provider offering fast access to a wide range of diagnostic scans, including full-body MRI scans.
Whether it’s a nagging concern, family history, milestone birthday, or simple curiosity about your health, they’re here to help you gain clarity and peace of mind. Whatever your reason, Vista Health can help.
To book your diagnostic scan or screening appointment, either book online, make an enquiry or call 0330 029 0389.
Who are full body MRI scans suitable for?
Full body MRI scans are safe, suitable for most people, and a great option for anyone wanting to get a comprehensive insight into their health.
However, there are some instances where a full body MRI scan may not be recommended. This includes people with metal implants or fragments, such as pacemakers and artificial joints, as these can interfere with the strong magnets used during the scan.
Your GP will be able to advise you on whether or not a full body MRI scan is suitable for you. Alternatively, through Vista Health’s private virtual GP service, you can schedule a consultation with their expert clinical team to discuss your options quickly and conveniently. Consultations can also be booked alongside a fully body MRI scan to discuss your findings.
How much does a full body MRI scan cost?
Statistics show that full body MRI scans typically cost anywhere between £999 and £2,350 in the UK, depending on the package and the provider.
At Vista Health, a full body MRI scan costs between £1,295 to £1,850, depending on the package chosen. With no hidden costs, prices include scan reports and access to all images.
Vista Health’s Gold MRI scan package includes analysis of the head, spine, pelvis, and abdomen. Their Platinum package includes an additional heart scan. Both packages include a full written scan report and images. You can read more about Vista Health’s MRI scan packages on their website.
Vista Health’s state-of-the-art MRI scanners are also fitted with special technology to create an immersive visual experience, giving patients a choice of music or film during their scan.
Plus, with no waiting lists and no referral needed, Vista Health offers quick access to full body MRI scans. Operating across more than 60 locations nationwide, simply choose your date and location, and book online without the need for referral.
Final thoughts…
We all want to do what we can to take care of our health and manage our risk of serious health conditions. Having a full body MRI scan can be an effective way to review several areas of your health in one go. And, even better – it’s quick and painless.
Vista Health is the UK’s largest independent provider of specialist diagnostic services and the leading independent operator of MRI scanners, and other diagnostic technology. They aim to make diagnostic healthcare accessible, affordable, and assuring for patients across the UK.
For more information or to book your full body MRI scan with Vista Health, head over to their website.
Have you had a full body MRI scan before? Is it something you’re considering? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
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