FerriScan

At Welbeck, our MRI machines have been integrated with FerriScan software, and the test is performed by specialist radiographers who are trained in using this advanced technology. You can expect the following:

1. All of our scans begin with an MRI safety questionnaire, which a radiographer will then confirm with you.

2. You’ll be asked to remove all jewellery, clothing and other personal items and change into a gown provided to you.

3. You’ll be taken into the MRI room by a radiographer and asked to lie down on the MRI bed.

4. You’ll be provided with earplugs or headphones to protect your hearing from the loud noises the machine will make. You’ll be given a call bell to communicate with the radiographers.

5. Once positioned inside, the MRI machine will capture multiple images of your liver. This will take approximately 15 minutes with no requirement for injections or contrast agents.

6. Once the scan is complete, the images will be sent to a central secure server, where they’re processed by trained analysts using the patented FerriScan software.

Within 48 hours or so, a liver iron concentration (LIC) report will be delivered to your Welbeck consultant, which will include:

• a table of what your LIC measurement means in terms of your clinical diagnosis

• a map of the iron distribution across your liver

• historical data showing your progress over time (if available)

FerriScan is a type of MRI scan. Unlike X-rays or CT Scans, it does not use radiation. Instead, it uses a strong magnetic field combined with pulses of radio wave energy to take images.

Because MRI scanners produce strong magnetic fields, it’s important to discuss with your clinician or a radiographer if you have any implants before going ahead with your scan.

Examples may include: 

• pacemakers / ICDs

• stents

• aneurysm clips/coils

• insulin pumps

• glucose monitors

• artificial joints

Whilst MRI scans can be carried out during pregnancy, it’s recommended that within the first trimester it’s avoided. If you’re pregnant, this will need to be discussed with your clinician and a radiologist to determine if alternative tests can be carried out. It means that in some situations, FerriScan may not be recommended.

There’s no specific preparation required. You should continue to take medication as directed by your health care provider.

There’s no recovery time or aftercare needed with FerriScan. You’ll be able to return to normal activities straight away.

Please contact our Imaging & Diagnostics centre for pricing information.

At Welbeck, our specialists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof. 

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book a FerriScan, you must be referred by either your GP or a consultant. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.

If you would like to schedule a consultation, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.