Scan Types / MRI Neck Scan
MRI Neck Scan
An MRI of the neck provides detailed imaging of the soft tissues, lymph nodes, salivary glands, blood vessels, airway, cervical spine, and surrounding structures. It is a key diagnostic tool for assessing swelling, tumors, nerve compression, or unexplained neck symptoms.
What is an MRI neck scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves — without radiation — to generate high-resolution cross-sectional images of the neck region.
A neck MRI can assess:
- Lymph node enlargement or masses
- Salivary glands (parotid, submandibular)
- Larynx, pharynx, vocal cords
- Thyroid and surrounding soft tissue
- Cervical nerves, vessels, and spinal structures
It is particularly useful when other imaging modalities such as ultrasound or CT are inconclusive.
Why consider a private MRI scan for the neck?
MRI offers superior contrast resolution, making it ideal for soft tissue, glandular, and vascular structures of the neck — especially when evaluating lumps, persistent pain, or neurological symptoms.
Benefits of a private scan include:
- Appointments within 7 days
- Consultant radiologist report in 3 working days
- No radiation exposure
- Ideal for ENT, head and neck, and neurological assessments
Symptoms that may warrant a neck MRI
Consider a neck MRI if you are experiencing:
- Neck lumps or swelling (persistent or unexplained)
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Hoarseness or vocal cord dysfunction
- Numbness, tingling, or radiating pain in arms
- Suspected glandular infection or tumor
- Monitoring of known thyroid or parotid conditions
What can a neck MRI detect?
MRI scans can help diagnose:
- Head and neck tumors (benign or malignant)
- Lymphadenopathy or lymph node metastasis
- Salivary gland stones or inflammation
- Parathyroid or thyroid abnormalities
- Soft tissue infections or abscesses
- Vascular compression or narrowing
- Cervical nerve compression or disc pathology
Preparing for your neck MRI
To prepare:
- Wear comfortable, non-metallic clothing
- Avoid necklaces, earrings, and makeup with metallic content
- You may eat, drink, and take medications normally
- Bring any ENT referrals, imaging, or biopsy reports
Please notify the team if you have:
- You’ve had head or neck surgery or implants
- 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 neck MRI scan
Our transparent self-pay pricing options:
Includes detailed radiologist report within 3 working days.
Standard MRI
High-definition neck scan
£295
With Contrast
Includes contrast for lesion characterization
£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.