CT, MRI, Ultrasound and X-ray in Manchester

We offer the following services within the department, which is staffed with clinical professionals who support our team of vastly experienced radiologists and radiographers.

The department has two general X-ray units which can perform a wide range of examinations, including panoramic images of the teeth and jaw for patients who require dental scans.

Our MRI unit is home to a Siemens 1.5 Tesla Scanner, plus a mobile Philips 3 Tesla Scanner. These imaging devices are capable of scanning all parts of the body, producing high quality resolution scans in 20-40 minutes (depending on the part of the body being scanned). We also offer a Cardiac MRI service.

Our 360 slice CT scanner offers a wide range of examinations, including CT Cardiac, CT Colongraphy and CT guided interventional procedures. This equipment provides patients with a faster scan and a lower dose of radiation, leading to a safer and far more comfortable experience overall.

 

A CT coronary angiogram is a test used to measure the blood flow through the coronary arteries, where an iodine-based dye is injected into the bloodstream to highlight the vessels.  The difference between this and the traditional angiogram is that the dye is injected through a small vein rather through an artery in your groin, making it less invasive.  You may also be required to take some medication that will slow down your heartbeat, for better quality images. How does it work? 

The scanner also produces very detailed 3D images of the whole body including moving organs, bone and blood vessels and can assist in the early diagnosis of many conditions thus allowing for rapid treatment. It also provides highly detailed images of blood vessels and the heart and is used for finding narrowing in coronary arteries and for ruling in or out significant heart disease and artery disease or congenital abnormalities.

Our new CaRi-Heart® technology allows us to identify potential heart problems years before they happen, helping you to take control of your heart health before something serious develops.

When it comes to heart health, understanding your own cardiac health and identifying problems early can prevent serious issues further down the line. It’s thought that 80-90% of cardiovascular disease is preventable, and yet heart and circulatory diseases account for around a quarter of all deaths in the UK.

Nuclear medicine is a branch of diagnostic imaging that investigates functional and physiological conditions. This is done by administering small amount of radioactive tracers. The radiation is then detected by a gamma camera or counter to aid with diagnosis of various diseases. We also offer SPECT and SPECT/CT scan which is a nuclear imaging technique that helps create 3D pictures. For some scans a low dose CT is obtained to aid with localisation of abnormalities and to compensate for gamma ray absorption within the body.

 

The imaging department offers a comprehensive breast imaging service including:

• Digital mammography
• Ultrasound
• Cell sampling/fine needle aspirations
• MR scan
• Sentinel node imaging

Our digital mammography unit is also fitted with tomosynthesis capabilities meaning it can take multiple images through the breast.

Our Breast Radiologists perform all examinations along with our Radiographers who work cohesively with our Consultant Breast Surgeons and Breast Care Nurses, ensuring you receive the highest standard of compassion and care.

At The Alexandra Hospital we provide fluoroscopy screening which uses x-rays to obtain images of the required body part. Our team of dedicated Interventional Radiologists are supported by Interventional Nurses and Radiographers, providing you with a fully integrated service throughout your treatment.

In November 2016, the diagnostic imaging department will see the opening of a new hybrid interventional theatre, which means the space can be utilised for diagnostics, or as a traditional operating theatre.

This exciting development will further our provisions with regards to interventional radiology and cardiology.

• Monday - Friday: 8am- 9pm
• Saturday: 8:30am-6pm

Please note, our MRI unit is opened during the following hours:

• Monday - Friday: 8am- 9pm
• Saturday: 8am- 6pm
• Sunday: 8am- 4pm

• Imaging - 0161 495 7039
• MRI - 0161 495 6891 or 6892
• Nuclear medicine - 0161 495 7040

Some appointments are available within 24 hours.

Accessing private healthcare is easy, whether you choose to pay directly or use private medical insurance.

If you are paying for yourself, we can usually offer an upfront cost which you can then choose to pay in full or access one of our easy payment options.

If you have insurance, we can arrange direct settlement with your insurance provider, although you should check in advance to see if your treatment is covered. For more information, visit our private medical insurance page.