CT colonography, MRI liver, MRCP, pancreatic imaging and specialist bowel assessment — including accredited CT colonography for colon cancer investigation.
The gastrointestinal tract and hepatobiliary system — encompassing the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas — require specialist imaging interpretation for accurate diagnosis. Our consultants have subspecialist expertise across this broad area, with particular depth in CT colonography and hepatobiliary MRI.
Modern imaging can assess the bowel non-invasively, characterise liver lesions with high accuracy, and evaluate the bile ducts and pancreas in extraordinary detail — guiding treatment decisions that previously required invasive procedures.
CT colonography (CTC) is a minimally invasive technique that uses CT imaging to produce detailed three-dimensional images of the colon and rectum, after bowel preparation. It is highly accurate for detecting colonic polyps and cancer. CTC avoids the need for endoscopy in many patients and is particularly well suited to patients who are unable to tolerate or who prefer to avoid traditional colonoscopy. It also allows simultaneous assessment of the rest of the abdomen and pelvis. Three of our consultants have specialist expertise in colonography.
Preparation: CT colonography requires a 48-hour low-residue diet and bowel preparation (laxatives and oral contrast). We will provide comprehensive written instructions at the time of booking.
MRI is the most accurate modality for characterising liver lesions — distinguishing benign cysts, haemangiomas and focal nodular hyperplasia from metastases and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We use liver-specific contrast agents (Primovist/gadoxetate) when indicated for optimal hepatic assessment.
MRCP (MR cholangiopancreatography) non-invasively images the biliary tree and pancreatic duct without the need for endoscopy or contrast injection. It is the imaging test of choice for suspected bile duct stones, strictures, primary sclerosing cholangitis and pancreatic duct assessment.
Comprehensive CT of the abdomen and pelvis for pain, weight loss, unexplained symptoms and oncological staging. Including CT of the pancreas with dedicated perfusion protocols where needed.
MR enterography and CT enterography for small bowel assessment including Crohn's disease activity, obstruction and small bowel tumours.
Assessment of the liver, gallbladder, spleen, kidneys and aorta. Particularly valuable as the first line investigation for right upper quadrant pain and suspected gallstones.
CT colonography for polyp and cancer detection. MRI rectum for rectal cancer staging. CT chest, abdomen and pelvis for staging and surveillance.
Characterisation of incidental liver lesions found on ultrasound or other imaging. Surveillance of known liver disease. Staging of liver metastases.
Ultrasound for gallstones. MRCP for bile duct stones, common bile duct assessment, primary sclerosing cholangitis and cholangiocarcinoma investigation.
CT and MRI for acute and chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cystic lesions, and characterisation of solid pancreatic masses.
MR enterography for assessment of Crohn's disease activity, complications and treatment response. CT for acute complications.
CT colonography as a non-invasive alternative to colonoscopy for investigation of change in bowel habit, rectal bleeding and iron deficiency anaemia.