What is a One Area MRI?

A One Area MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is an advanced imaging scan that focuses on one selected part of the body, such as the brain, spine, knee, shoulder, abdomen, pelvis, or another targeted region.

MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of soft tissues, organs, joints, nerves and blood vessels. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not use ionising radiation, making it suitable for detailed assessment and repeat imaging when clinically appropriate.

This scan is ideal when symptoms or concerns are localised to a specific area, allowing precise diagnosis and targeted clinical decision-making.

When a One Area MRI is recommended

A One Area MRI is recommended when detailed imaging of a specific region is required.

You may be advised to have this scan if you:

• Have persistent pain in one area
• Have neurological symptoms affecting a specific region
• Have joint or soft tissue injuries
• Need detailed assessment after an abnormal X-ray or ultrasound
• Have unexplained symptoms localised to one body area
• Require monitoring of a known condition
• Need high-resolution imaging without radiation
• Are being assessed before treatment or surgery

What a One Area MRI can assess

Depending on the selected area, the scan may assess:

• Brain or spinal cord structures
• Joints, ligaments and cartilage
• Muscles and soft tissues
• Abdominal or pelvic organs
• Nerves and surrounding tissues
• Inflammation, masses or structural abnormalities

The scan protocol is tailored to the specific area being examined.

Benefits of a One Area MRI

• Highly detailed imaging of a specific region
  Superior soft tissue detail.
• No radiation exposure
  Safe imaging option.
• Targeted diagnostic accuracy
  Focuses on the area of concern.
• Non-invasive and painless
  No needles or incisions required.
• Useful for diagnosis and monitoring
  Supports ongoing care planning.
• Safe for repeat imaging when appropriate
  Suitable for follow-up scans.
• Supports early detection of abnormalities
  Identifies subtle changes.
• Widely used across medical specialties
  Including neurology, orthopaedics and oncology.

How the One Area MRI is performed

The scan is performed by trained radiology staff using MRI equipment.

• You will lie on a motorised table
• The table moves into the MRI scanner
• You must remain still during imaging
• Ear protection is provided due to scanner noise

The scan typically takes 20–45 minutes, depending on the area and protocol. No recovery time is required afterwards.

Understanding your One Area MRI results

Normal findings

The scanned area appears normal with no significant abnormalities.

Typical report:

• No abnormal findings detected

Localised abnormalities

Changes such as inflammation, structural damage or masses may be identified.

Typical report:

• Abnormality detected in the scanned region

Incidental findings

Unrelated findings may occasionally be noted.

Typical report:

• Incidental findings noted – clinical correlation advised

Results are interpreted by a specialist radiologist and reviewed in clinical context.