If you are reading this page you have been invited for an ultrasound / MRI scan. The time, date, location and scan type have been supplied in the text message you received. If you are unable to attend this appointment or have any additional needs e.g. limited mobility, hearing or sight problems, interpreter requirements, or are diabetic, please telephone 0161 929 5679 / 0330 058 4142 (Mon – Fri 8am – 5:30 pm) as soon as possible.

DEXA/DXA Ultrasound MRI

We want to ensure that your appointment with us runs smoothly and therefore it is very important that you read the information below so that you understand what happens during an ultrasound scan.

If you are booked for a DEXA/DXA scan please see below

What preparation is required for a bone density scan?

There is no preparation required before a bone density scan. You are NOT required to fast so can eat, drink and take medications as normal.

What do we need to know before the DEXA/DXA scan?

If you are pregnant, please advise your doctor and let us know. Although bone density is a safe procedure, it is not recommended for pregnant women.

Please note that DEXA/DXA scans cannot be performed within 14 days of:

Any X-ray examination which required you to have an injection of X-ray dye or a Barium Enema, Swallow or Meal.
A CT scan which included an injection of an X-ray dye.
Any Nuclear Medicine Scan.

If you have had any of these procedures, please contact us and we will arrange for your appointment to be booked at the proper time

What happens at the appointment and during the bone density scan?

When you arrive at our clinic for your appointment, our Radiographer will provide you with a full briefing on what will happen during your appointment. Typically, an appointment will commence with a safety questionnaire in which you will consent for the scan to go ahead. You will be asked to lie on a bed and the Radiographer will position the DEXA/DXA detectors to focus on the scanned area. The special detectors measure how much radiation passes through your bones and this information is translated and compared with the bone density of a healthy adult of your own age, gender and ethnicity.

During the scan it is important to remain still to avoid blurring of the images. Each scan lasts only a few minutes.

After the bone density scan

After the bone density scan has been completed, the images will be briefly checked to ensure that they are of good quality and can be used to make a diagnosis.

There are no restrictions on normal activity, you can eat and drink normally, drive and return to work immediately after the scan. The images will be sent to a Radiologist or reporting Radiographer who will analyse them and the results will be sent to your referring doctor. This process typically takes up to two weeks.

If you are booked for an ultrasound scan please see below

Clinic Instructions

Where to Wait: Please report to reception unless otherwise instructed.

Scan Accompaniment: Usually people accompanying patients to their appointments will be asked to wait outside the scanning room during the examination although exceptions can be made for carers if appropriate.

Face Coverings: There is no requirement to wear a mask.

Parking: Please allow time for parking – spaces are often limited and if you are late for your appointment we may not be able to scan you.

We always do our best to see you on time, however sometimes there are unavoidable delays. Your scan may be performed by a person of the opposite sex. Please contact us if this is of concern to you.

Please be aware that we will be holding personal information regarding your examination (including all the images that we acquire). We would like to assure you that your information is treated confidentially.

Preparation for your specific scan

Please read below the preparation needed for your type of scan. If you are still unsure after reading this please call 0161 929 5679 / 0330 058 4142.

The following scans require NO preparation

Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasounds to include soft tissue masses, lumps and bumps.
Skeletal scans for soft tissue assessment including shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, hands, wrists, ankles and feet.
Groin and abdominal wall hernia.

The following ultrasound scans require preparation

Ultrasound of ABDOMEN: Do not eat anything for a minimum of 6 hours before the scan. You may drink water or squash, black tea or coffee but must avoid milk. All regular medication should be taken (including water tablets).

If you are diabetic and are concerned please contact us.

Ultrasound of ABDOMEN and PELVIS: Do not eat anything for a minimum of 6 hours before the scan. You may drink water or squash, black tea or coffee but must avoid milk. You are required to drink at least 850ml/1.5 pints of water one hour before your appointment. DO NOT EMPTY YOUR BLADDER. All regular medication should be taken (including water tablets).

If you are diabetic and are concerned please contact us.

Ultrasound of PELVIS or RENAL AREA: You are required to drink at least 850ml/1.5 pints of water one hour before your appointment. DO NOT EMPTY YOUR BLADDER. All regular medication should be taken (including water tablets).