MRI Kidneys Scan
A private MRI scan of the kidneys uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of your kidneys and surrounding areas. Unlike X-rays, this imaging technique uses no ionising radiation, making it a safe choice for many patients.
Written by the MyScanHub content team4 minutes reading time
From
£295
All-inclusive. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
- Consultant radiologists
- CQC registered
- GDPR compliant
- Report in 3 working days
What is an MRI Kidneys Scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves — with no ionising radiation — to create high-resolution cross-sectional images.
An MRI Kidneys Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- The kidneys themselves, including their size, shape, and position.
- The renal arteries and veins that supply blood to and drain from the kidneys.
- The upper parts of the ureters, the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
- The adrenal glands, located on top of each kidney.
- Surrounding tissues and structures, such as the liver, spleen, and pancreas.
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the kidneys.
Is this scan right for you?
Common reasons for having this scan include:
- Pain in your side or back, below the ribs.
- Blood in your urine (haematuria).
- Difficulty passing urine or changes in urination frequency.
- Swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet.
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control.
- A known abnormality found on other tests.
- Monitoring of a previously identified kidney condition.
What an MRI Kidneys Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Abnormalities in kidney size or shape.
- Cysts or fluid-filled sacs within the kidneys.
- Blockages or narrowing in the renal arteries.
- Signs of inflammation or infection in the kidneys.
- The extent of certain kidney tumours or masses.
- Congenital abnormalities of the kidneys.
- Changes in the kidneys related to other medical conditions.
Preparing for your MRI Kidneys Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Please remove all jewellery and metal objects before entering the scanning room.
- You will be asked to complete a safety questionnaire.
- Eat and take your usual medications as normal unless specifically advised otherwise.
- Wear comfortable clothing; you may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
Please notify the team if:
- If you have a pacemaker, defibrillator, or any implanted electronic device.
- If you have certain types of surgical clips, stents, or metal fragments in your body (especially the eyes).
- If you are pregnant, especially in the first trimester, or suspect you might be.
- If you experience severe claustrophobia, as we have measures to help manage this.
Your report
Every MRI at MyScanHub is reported by a GMC-registered consultant radiologist. Your written report is delivered securely to your patient portal within 3 working days.
You can download the report and your images from your patient account to share with your GP, physiotherapist or specialist, or add a GP consultation to talk the findings through. How to open and share your results.
Why consider a private MRI scan for the kidneys?
When you need answers quickly — or when prior imaging has been inconclusive — a private MRI at MyScanHub gives you timely access and specialist reporting without the wait.
Private scan benefits include:
- Fast access — same-day or next-day appointments, no waiting list
- Consultant radiologist report within 3 working days
- Fully-private, CQC-registered, GDPR-compliant imaging centre
- Secure online access to your report and images, easy to share with your GP or specialist
Smarter scanning. Proactive health. Peace of mind.
Step 1
Choose
Pick a scan or a programme. No GP referral required.
Step 2
Book
Select a time online — same-day availability most weekdays.
Step 3
Scan
Be seen by consultants at our Dartford, Kent imaging centre.
Step 4
Results
Consultant-led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an MRI kidney scan take?
A typical MRI scan of the kidneys takes around 30–45 minutes to complete, depending on the specific sequences required by the reporting radiologist.
Do I need a referral from my GP for an MRI kidney scan?
No, you do not need a referral from your GP. You can self-refer and book your private MRI scan directly with us at MyScanHub.
Will I receive a diagnosis immediately after the scan?
The scan produces detailed images. These are then reviewed by a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist who will provide a detailed report. Your results will be available via your secure online portal within 3 working days, and you can share these with your GP or a clinician for diagnosis and advice.
Can I have a contrast agent for my kidney MRI?
A gadolinium contrast agent can be given intravenously if clinically required, at an additional cost of £120. This must be confirmed as necessary for your specific clinical need before booking.
Do I need a GP referral?
No — MyScanHub accepts self-referral for most scans. Our consultant radiologists review every case. Some scans (e.g. contrast studies) do need a referring clinician; we'll let you know at booking.
When will I get my report?
Written reports from a GMC-registered consultant radiologist are delivered within 3 working days of your scan, often sooner. You can access the report — and the imaging — through your patient account at myscanhub.com.
Where is the clinic?
Our imaging centre is at Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford, Kent (DA9 9ST), in the Guildhall Outer Car Park — free parking, a few minutes from junction 2 of the M25 and the A2. We're open Monday to Saturday 8am–9pm and Sunday 10am–5pm. Full directions are sent with your booking confirmation.
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Ready to book your MRI Kidneys Scan?
Book online in minutes. Same-day and next-day slots available most weekdays in Dartford, Kent. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
At our clinic in Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford: free parking, open seven days. How to find us · All private MRI scans in Dartford & Kent