Diagnostic Imaging

Carotid Doppler Ultrasound

A carotid doppler ultrasound scan is used to evaluate blood flow through the carotid arteries in the neck. Narrowing of the carotid arteries could indicate a potential risk of a stroke occurring. It is generally caused by a build up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances that circulate around the blood stream. Early detection of narrowed carotid arteries enable doctors to begin treatments that will decrease the risk of a stroke occurring.

Your doctor may recommend that you undergo the scan if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, family history of heart disease or stroke or have suffered a recent TIA or stroke

The examination is totally painless. The physiologist carries out with test with a small hand held device called a transducer.

Computed Tomography (CT)

Computed Tomography (CT) provides an extensive service to the Hospital, particularly to the Endoscopy, Cardiology, Gastroenterology and Oncology units, together with our ever-growing Outpatient services.. ‘The Siemens Definition 64 slice scanner is amongst the first to adopt the latest in dose management technology.. The CT scanner provides dramatic image detail and resolution that allows for a more accurate diagnosis. Its radiation dose shield ensures that patients only receive the minimum, clinically relevant dose.  Patient care excellence is therefore  enhanced through maximal image quality based on latest technological advances, whilst simultaneously achieving significant patient radiation dose savings.

Our Consultant Radiology  and Radiographic team comprises a number of subspecialties such as CT Colonoscopy and Cardiac CT, together with CT of the neurological, urological, gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal systems.

The CT Department is led by an experienced and dedicated CT Clinical Specialist. The Department is actively involved in extensive post-graduate CT training and education, ensuring the highest standards of quality and care are consistently maintained.

The CT service is available from Monday to Friday 8.45am – 6.30pm.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Scan

MRI scanning is an invaluable diagnostic tool in all medical disciplines today. For an MRI Scan in Dublin, the Bon Secours Hospital provides the 1.5 Tesla Siemens Avanto MRI unit is capable of a wide range of both standard and advanced examinations. This state-of-the-art scanner is designed for maximum speed and comfort which is particularly important for patients who find it difficult to remain still or may suffer from claustrophobia.

All systems of the body can be imaged using MRI including Neurological (brain and spine), Musculoskeletal (joints), Abdominal and Pelvic, Angiographic (blood vessels) and Cardiac (heart) systems. The advantages of the multi-channel technology employed include higher speed, sharper images and increased patient comfort. It also facilitates performing examination ‘feet first’ in the scanner, alleviating anxieties regarding claustrophobia, and the performance of three dimensional (3D) scans. Further advanced examinations are also routine due to the revolutionary technology employed in this scanner. These include Whole body imaging, Whole Body Angiography (blood vessels) and Whole Spine imaging, - all in one examination without repositioning the patient. Imaging information is seamlessly ‘knitted’ together to create a clearer understanding of entire regions. Diffusion imaging is readily available together with Functional MRI of the Brain, and Cardiac examinations.

The MRI Department provides a high quality efficient and accessible service. For appointments please contact our Outpatient Bookings Department on 01 808 2300 who will arrange an appointment for a time and date that best suits you. Referrals can also be made directly via Healthlink. Appointments can generally be facilitated within a few days. Referrals are accepted from both GP's and consultants. As Bon Secours is a self pay private healthcare hospital, direct payment schemes are established with VHI (Consultant referral), Irish Life Health, Garda Medical Aid, Prison Officers Medical Aid and ESB schemes. This enables scanning with no direct charge to the patient.

What is an MRI Scan?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an imaging technique that uses a strong magnetic field and radio-waves to obtain detailed images of tissues and organs in your body

Who will I see? 

Throughout your MRI examination you will be cared for by a highly skilled Radiographer.

Is it Safe?

MRI scans are painless. However, due to the use of the strong magnetic field you can not be scanned if you have a Pacemaker or Internal Defibrillator.

If you can answer ‘yes’ to any of the following please inform a Radiographer during your appointment booking:

• You are or you think you might be pregnant
• You have artificial heart valves
• You have any clips or coils placed in your brain/head
• You have a cochlear implant
•  You have an implanted pain stimulator
• You have a eye implant
• You have had previous injuries to your eyes from metallic fragments

What are the benefits?

Medical Imaging can bring very real benefits to patients. The results of your MRI scan can help your doctor make the right diagnosis to any health issues you have been experiencing.

Before your MRI scan

When we book your appointment we will give you full instructions to follow prior to your scan. You will also be asked some safety questions prior to attending for your appointment.

The day of your scan

Please check-in with our administrative staff at x-ray reception and you will be shown where to wait for your scan. A radiographer will bring you through to the MRI unit were you will be asked to complete a detailed MRI safety checklist. All patients must complete this checklist before entering the scan room. A radiographer will ask you to undress into a hospital gown in a cubicle and to remove any loose metallic objects. These will be stored safely in your cubicle for the duration of your examination.

What happens during your MRI scan?

In the MRI scan room you will be asked to lie on the scan bed. The scanner is similar to a ‘tube shape’ with a short bore and open at both ends. Depending on your scan type will determine how far into the scanner you are placed. The radiographer may need to position extra imaging equipment on or around you to get clearer images.
The scanner does make a loud noise similar to a loud drum beating. The radiographer will either give you ear plugs or a set of headphones to wear during the scan. Through the headphones music can be played. The Radiographer does have to move to the control room to start the scans but can see and hear you at all times. You will be given a small rubber ball in your hand- this is a call bell as an additional means of contacting a radiographer during the scan. Your examination may take between 20-60 minutes depending on your examination.

Do I need an MRI dye Injection?

This will be dependant on the scan type requested by your doctor. MRI dye injections are useful to help increase the information obtained but is not always necessary. This is not a radio-active dye, it is clear in colour and is excreted from the body as when you would drink a glass of water.

If the CT X-Ray dye injection is given to me

If you require an MRI dye injection you will be asked to complete a safety check-list beforehand. During the scan the MRI dye will be administered to you through a vein in your arm. As with any medication there is a small chance you could develop an allergy to the MRI dye. If you develop an allergy we have qualified and experienced medical staff(s) who can assess you, and give treatments were necessary.

After your MRI scan

After your MRI scan you will feel no ill effects and you may continue with your normal daily activities. If you have received an injection of the MRI dye you will be asked to remain within the hospital for one hour after your scan.

When will I get results?

The acquired MRI images will be read by a Consultant Radiologist after your visit. A report will be sent to your referring doctor.