Scan Types / MRI IAM (Internal Auditory Meatus) Scan
MRI IAM (Internal Auditory Meatus) Scan
An MRI of the Internal Auditory Meatus (IAM) provides high-resolution imaging of the auditory nerves, vestibular structures, and adjacent brainstem areas. It is typically used to assess causes of hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, or to investigate for vestibular schwannomas (acoustic neuromas).
What is an MRI IAM scan?
The internal auditory meatus is a narrow canal in the temporal bone through which the facial and vestibulocochlear nerves pass.
MRI of this region focuses on:
- The cochlear and vestibular (balance) nerves
- Facial nerve (cranial nerve VII)
- Cerebellopontine angle
- Adjacent brainstem and surrounding CSF spaces
MRI IAM is performed using fine slice protocols to detect small nerve-related abnormalities.
Why consider a private MRI scan for the IAM?
Early detection of vestibular or nerve-related causes of hearing and balance disorders is critical — especially if symptoms are one-sided or progressive.
Private scan benefits include:
- Immediate access and quick turnaround
- Consultant radiologist report in 3 working days
- Fine-detail imaging ideal for tiny tumors or inflammation
- Safe, non-invasive, and radiation-free
Symptoms that may warrant an IAM MRI
You may be referred for this scan if experiencing:
- Unilateral (one-sided) hearing loss
- Persistent or pulsatile tinnitus
- Dizziness or balance disturbance (vertigo)
- Facial numbness or weakness
- Suspected vestibular schwannoma or acoustic neuroma
- Follow-up of known IAM lesions
What can an IAM MRI detect?
MRI can accurately detect:
- Vestibular schwannomas (acoustic neuromas)
- Inflammation of the vestibular or cochlear nerves
- Facial nerve lesions or neuritis
- Tumors in the cerebellopontine angle
- Demyelination (e.g. multiple sclerosis) affecting cranial nerves
- Abnormal vascular compression of nerves
Preparing for your IAM MRI
Preparation instructions:
- Remove hearing aids, earrings, and metal hair accessories
- Bring audiology reports or ENT letters if available
- Eat, drink, and take medications as normal
- Inform staff of any previous head or ear surgery
Please notify the team if you have:
- History of ear surgery with implanted devices
- You wear a pacemaker
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- You experience anxiety or claustrophobia
How it works
Smarter Scanning. Proactive Health. Peace of Mind.
Choose
Pick a scan or a program. No referral required.
Book
Select a time online - same‑day availability.
Scan
Be seen by specialists in our Bluewater clinic.
Results
Consultant‑led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Pricing for a private IAM MRI scan
Our transparent self-pay pricing options:
Includes detailed radiologist report within 3 working days.
Standard MRI
Non-contrast MRI of the internal auditory canal
£295
With Contrast
Gadolinium contrast for tumor or inflammation detection
£495
Get clarity. Get control.
Cut out long NHS queues, avoid opaque private quotes, and step into a single-visit, consultant-led experience.
FAQs
Got a question? Check below to find the answer.
We’re an independent diagnostic centre in Dartford offering same-day private MRI with UK-consultant reporting and transparent self-pay pricing.
No-self-referral is welcome. If you already have a referral letter, upload it at checkout.
Prices start at £150 for single-area Off-Peak scans. Your fee covers the scan, double-reading, and unlimited portal access.
Many insurers reimburse private MRI. We provide the codes and receipts you need to claim.
Call 01322 - MRI - NOW, start a live chat, or email hello@myscanhub.co.uk.