MRI Thoracic Spine Scan
A private MRI scan of your thoracic spine uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of your upper and mid-back. Unlike X-rays, it uses no ionising radiation, making it a safe option for many people.
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 Thoracic Spine Scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves — with no ionising radiation — to create high-resolution cross-sectional images.
An MRI Thoracic Spine Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- The thoracic vertebrae (the bones of your mid-back)
- The spinal cord within the thoracic canal
- Nerve roots exiting the spinal cord
- Intervertebral discs between the vertebrae
- Ligaments supporting the spine
- Muscles and soft tissues of the thoracic region
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the thoracic spine.
Is this scan right for you?
Common reasons for having this scan include:
- Persistent or severe pain in the mid-back
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your chest or abdomen
- Pain radiating from your back to your chest
- Difficulty with movement or stiffness in your upper back
- Following an injury to the thoracic spine
- To investigate the cause of unexplained changes seen on other imaging
- As part of an investigation for certain neurological symptoms
What an MRI Thoracic Spine Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Degenerative changes in the spine, such as disc bulges or thinning
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Injuries to the vertebrae, discs, or spinal cord
- Inflammatory conditions affecting the spine
- Abnormalities of the spinal cord itself
- Causes of persistent back pain or nerve irritation
Preparing for your MRI Thoracic Spine Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Wear comfortable clothing; you may be asked to change into a gown.
- Remove all metal objects, jewellery, and watches before entering the scanning room.
- Eat and take your usual medications unless specifically advised otherwise by our team.
- Bring any previous relevant scan reports or imaging if you have them.
Please notify the team if:
- If you have a pacemaker, defibrillator, or any implanted cardiac device.
- If you have certain types of cochlear implants or artificial joints.
- If you have any metal fragments in your body, especially near your eyes.
- If you are pregnant, particularly in the first trimester.
- If you experience severe claustrophobia, as we offer support for anxious patients.
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 thoracic spine?
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 a thoracic spine MRI take?
A single-part MRI scan typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes. Your appointment will be longer to allow for preparation and any questions you may have.
Will I need contrast dye for my thoracic spine MRI?
Contrast dye (gadolinium) is not always necessary and is only used if clinically required to highlight specific tissues or abnormalities. If contrast is needed, it is an optional add-on and requires clinical confirmation before booking.
Can I get my MRI results straight away?
Your scan images will be available on our secure online patient portal within 3 working days. A detailed report from a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist will also be provided within this timeframe. You can then share these with your GP or consultant.
Do I need a referral from my GP for an MRI of my thoracic spine?
No, a GP referral is not required. You can self-refer for your MRI scan at MyScanHub, making the process quicker and more convenient.
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 Thoracic Spine 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