DK Dr. Kundan Kumar Neurosurgeon · Patna Book Appointment
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Diagnostics

MRI / CT Scan Referral Guidance

Guidance on when a brain or spine scan is needed and how imaging referrals work.

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Overview

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) scans create detailed pictures of the brain and spine. They help the doctor look for causes of symptoms such as stroke, tumours, bleeding, injury or nerve compression.

Not every neurological symptom needs a scan. The doctor will advise whether imaging is needed and which type is most suitable. If imaging is not available at the clinic, you will be guided on a referral to an imaging centre.

This page explains imaging referral guidance. Ask the clinic when you book where your scan can be done.

Why this test may be advised

  • When the history or examination suggests a problem that a scan can help confirm or rule out
  • Back or neck pain with nerve symptoms that are not improving
  • Seizures, unexplained weakness or other new neurological signs
  • To follow up a known condition

Having one or more of these does not by itself mean you have a particular condition. A doctor's assessment is needed to find the cause.

What the test involves

  1. The doctor explains why a scan is advised and which type.
  2. You receive a referral with the details the imaging centre needs.
  3. After the scan, you bring the images and report to your follow-up appointment.

Who may need this test

  • People whose doctor has advised a brain or spine scan
  • People with previous scans who want them reviewed in context

How to prepare

It helps to bring:

  • Tell the doctor if you have a pacemaker, metal implants or metal fragments in the body, or if you may be pregnant, as these affect whether MRI or CT is suitable
  • Tell the doctor about kidney problems or any previous reaction to scan dye (contrast)
  • Follow any preparation instructions given by the imaging centre
  • Previous medical reports, prescriptions and hospital discharge summaries
  • MRI or CT scan films and reports, if you have them
  • A list of all the medicines you take, with their doses
  • A short note of your symptoms: when they started, how often they happen and what makes them better or worse
Test Preparation What to Bring

What happens next

  • The doctor reviews the images and report with you.
  • The results help decide on treatment and the next steps.

Recommendations depend on the clinician's assessment of your individual situation. This website cannot diagnose your condition or guarantee a particular result.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between MRI and CT?

CT uses X-rays and is quick, which makes it useful in emergencies such as suspected bleeding. MRI uses a strong magnet and radio waves instead of X-rays, and shows more detail of the brain, spinal cord and nerves.

Should I get a scan before seeing the doctor?

It is usually best to be assessed first, so that the right scan can be chosen. If you already have scans, bring them to your appointment.

Why should I bring my old scans?

Comparing new and old images helps the doctor see whether anything has changed.

Clinic locations

Please confirm the OPD day, timings and availability of this service when you book.

This page gives general information to help you understand this topic. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

In an emergency

If you or someone with you has sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, slurred speech, a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, a sudden severe headache or loss of consciousness, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Do not wait for an appointment or rely on this website.

Call 112

Related services

Neurology

Consultation and ongoing care for conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles.

View Details: Neurology

Book an appointment or contact the clinic

Call or send a WhatsApp message to ask about appointment times at the Patna, Ara and Siwan clinics.

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