Tell me more about my scan
We perform several different types of research scanning. Each is explained here.
COVID-19 & visiting the Edinburgh Imaging Facilities
The current COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation means our working practises have changed:
- Please attend on your own for your appointment whenever possible
- If you require assistance, bring only one person with you
- Arrive no earlier than 10 minutes before your appointment time
- On arrival, we will direct you to wash your hands
- We - the radiographers - will wear personal protective equipment (PPE) where needed
We have adopted these measures to protect you & our staff. We appreciate your understanding & cooperation at this challenging time.
What is a MR scan?
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was first demonstrated in the early 1970's & first used clinically in the 1980's. It is a relatively new technique which continues to be a fast developing science.
What is a CT scan?
A computerised tomography (CT) scanner uses X-rays & a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body.
What is a PET scan?
Positron emission tomography (PET) scans are used to produce detailed three-dimensional images of how the cells are working inside the body.
What is a PET-MR scan?
A PET-MR scanner is a PET scanner combined with an MR scanner.
What is a PET-CT scan?
A PET-CT scanner is a PET scanner combined with a CT scanner.
What is an fMR scan?
Functional magnetic resonance (fMR) imaging, is a technique which detects changes in blood flow to brain, when the brain is active.
What is Retinal imaging?
Retinal imaging is a non-invasive & completely safe method of obtaining pictures of the back of the eye.
What is an Ultrasound scan?
An ultrasound scan, sometimes called a sonogram, is a procedure that uses high frequency sound waves to create an image of part of the inside of the body, such as the heart.
What is an X-ray?
An X-ray is a safe & painless procedure that's often used to produce images of the inside of the body of a human or animal.
What is Microscopy?
Microscopy is the technical field of using microscopes to view samples & objects that cannot be seen with the unaided eye (objects that are not within the resolution range of the normal eye).