FindScan helps you compare the following private diagnostic scans at regulated clinics across the UK. Clinics publish their own prices, we show them exactly as set, and you send an enquiry to the clinic you choose.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging uses a strong magnet and radio waves to produce detailed images of soft tissue, including the brain, spine, joints and ligaments, with no ionising radiation. A scan usually takes between 15 minutes and an hour depending on the body part.
Computed Tomography combines X-rays from many angles into cross-sectional images. It is the scan of choice for bone, the chest, the abdomen and blood vessels, and the scan itself takes seconds, with most appointments lasting 10 to 20 minutes.
Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce real-time images with no radiation. It is the first-line scan for the abdomen, pelvis, pregnancy, thyroid, soft-tissue lumps and, with Doppler, blood flow in veins and arteries.
X-rays are the quickest and most widely available imaging test, used for suspected fractures, arthritic joints and the chest. The examination itself usually takes a few minutes and rarely needs any preparation.
A DEXA scan measures bone mineral density at the hip and spine using a very low dose of X-rays. It is the standard test for osteoporosis and fracture risk, takes around 10 to 20 minutes, and you lie on an open table.
About DEXA scansA mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast used to look for changes that are too small to feel. Private clinics offer diagnostic mammograms on referral and some offer screening to women outside the NHS programme age range.
About mammogramsAn echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. It shows the chambers, valves and pumping function in real time, uses no radiation, and usually takes 30 to 60 minutes with a cardiac physiologist or cardiologist.
About echocardiograms