Unveiling Health’s Best
Defense – Early Detection!

Understanding Which MRI Scan Is Right For Me:

Screening vs. Diagnostic Scans

At U3T MRI Centre, we perform MRI examinations for both screening and diagnostic purposes. While both types of scans use the same technology, their purposes, and the circumstances under which they are used, differ significantly. Understanding these differences can help you and your healthcare provider decide which type of MRI is appropriate for your needs. Please watch this video for a better understanding.

Is a Diagnostic MRI
Right for You?

Determining whether you need a diagnostic MRI involves evaluating your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. Consider the following questions to help decide if this type of scan is appropriate for you:

  • Are you experiencing persistent or severe pain?
  • Do you have pain in specific areas such as your elbow, knee, or hip?
  • Are you suffering from ongoing back pain?
  • Do you notice swelling that doesn’t decrease with time?
  • Are you experiencing frequent headaches?
  • Have you noticed a decrease in your range of motion in any joints?
  • Are you experiencing numbness or tingling sensations in any part of your body?
  • Do you have chronic pain that hasn’t improved with standard treatment methods?
  • Have you recently suffered an injury that might have affected your bones, joints, or tissues?
  • Are you experiencing unexplained muscle weakness?
  • Do you have persistent or recurring pain that worsens with activity?
  • Have your existing symptoms begun to interfere significantly with your daily activities?
  • Are there any noticeable changes in your physical abilities or neurological functions?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, a Diagnostic MRI might be right for you. This type of scan is invaluable for investigating symptoms like pain, swelling, or other changes in bodily functions, providing detailed images that can help diagnose the underlying causes of your discomfort.

Is an MRI Screening Scan
Right for You?

An MRI screening scan is a proactive step in managing your health, especially if you have a family history of certain conditions or are at higher risk due to genetic factors. Consider the following questions to help determine if an MRI screening scan is suitable for you:

  • Do you have a family history of medical conditions such as cancer, heart disease, or neurological disorders?
  • Are you at genetically increased risk for specific diseases that can be monitored via MRI?
  • Have you been advised by a healthcare professional to undergo regular screenings due to your family history?
  • Are you proactive about your health and interested in early detection of potential health issues?
  • Do you belong to a demographic group that is statistically more prone to certain diseases that can be detected early with MRI?
  • Would having a baseline health assessment via MRI provide you peace of mind?
  • Are you concerned about symptoms that are not yet severe but could potentially indicate the early stages of a condition?
  • Are you interested in taking comprehensive measures to ensure your long-term health and well-being?

An MRI screening scan can be particularly valuable for early detection and management of health conditions, allowing for interventions that can significantly alter outcomes. If your family history or personal health concerns lead you to answer “yes” to any of these questions, an MRI screening might be right for you.