Patient Resources

Diagnostic

Imaging

Guide

Your doctor will recommend the specific scan that’s right for your situation—this page is a general guide to help you understand what to expect.

Secure & Confidential · No credit card required

Understanding MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed, high-resolution images of your body's internal structures - completely free of ionizing radiation. Most scans take between 20 and 60 minutes, providing our specialists with the clarity needed for accurate diagnosis.

Please note: Your doctor will recommend the specific type of MRI scan based on your clinical symptoms and medical history.

Brain & Head

WHAT IT IS

Detailed imaging of the brain, cranial nerves, and surrounding soft tissues.

WHY IT MATTERS

Crucial for detecting neurological conditions early, offering unparalleled clarity of white and gray matter.

COMMON USE CASES

Headaches, stroke evaluation, tumors, and multiple sclerosis diagnosis.

Spine

WHAT IT IS

High-resolution imaging of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine regions.

WHY IT MATTERS

It accurately identifies nerve compression, spinal cord injuries, and disc deterioration.

COMMON USE CASES

Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, unexplained back pain, and trauma assessment.

Joint & Extremity

WHAT IT IS

Evaluation of musculoskeletal structures including knees, shoulders, hips, and ankles.

WHY IT MATTERS

It clearly shows soft tissues like cartilage, tendons, and ligaments that X-rays miss.

COMMON USE CASES

Sports injuries, arthritis progression, meniscus tears, and ligament evaluations.

Chest & Abdomen

WHAT IT IS

Imaging of vital torso organs including the liver, kidneys, spleen, and pancreas.

WHY IT MATTERS

Maps complex internal structures clearly without the radiation burden of CT scans.

COMMON USE CASES

Liver disease assessment, unexplained abdominal pain, and evaluating organ masses.

Cardiac & Vascular

WHAT IT IS

Detailed functional and structural views of the heart and major blood vessels.

WHY IT MATTERS

Assesses heart function, anatomy, and blood flow dynamically, allowing precise treatment planning.

COMMON USE CASES

Aortic disease, structural heart defects, evaluating damage after a heart attack.

Breast & Prostate

WHAT IT IS

Specialized multiparametric imaging dedicated to sensitive glandular tissues.

WHY IT MATTERS

Highly sensitive methodology for identifying early abnormalities that other methods may miss.

COMMON USE CASES

High-risk cancer screening, evaluating implant integrity, and precise tumor staging.

Women's Health

WHAT IT IS

Comprehensive imaging of the female pelvic region and reproductive organs.

WHY IT MATTERS

Vital for accurately identifying complex gynecological issues non-invasively.

COMMON USE CASES

Endometriosis mapping, uterine fibroids, and diagnosing unexplained pelvic pain.

Whole Body & MRCP

WHAT IT IS

Broad systemic scanning or specific high-definition ductal mapping (MRCP).

WHY IT MATTERS

Evaluates complex systemic conditions or pinpoints blockages in the biliary system.

COMMON USE CASES

Systemic screening, gallstones, and biliary tract obstructions.

PATIENT GUIDE

MRI Questions

We understand that undergoing an MRI can bring up questions. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your comfort, safety, and clarity throughout the process.

Do I need a referral for an MRI?

Please contact our clinic for current policies on referrals and physician recommendations.

Are MRI scans safe?

Yes, MRIs are entirely safe and do not use ionizing radiation. They use strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body.

Can I have an MRI if I have implants?

Certain metallic implants, pacemakers, or devices may prevent you from having an MRI. Please inform our staff of any implants or medical devices prior to your scan.

Is it safe to have an MRI while pregnant?

While MRIs are generally considered safe, please inform your doctor and our technologists if you are or might be pregnant before proceeding.

What if I experience claustrophobia?

Your comfort is our priority. We offer open options and supportive care to help you feel at ease. Please speak with us beforehand so we can accommodate your needs.

How should I prepare for my scan?

Generally, no special preparation is needed, and you can eat and drink normally. You will be asked to remove all jewelry and metal objects before entering the scan room.

How long does an MRI scan take?

Most scans take between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being imaged and the specific details required by your physician.

When will I receive my results?

Please contact our clinic for current policies on result turnaround times. Once reviewed by our radiologists, your report will be sent directly to your referring doctor.

Clarity in Care

DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING

Understanding Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to capture real-time images of the inside of your body. It is completely radiation-free, painless, and highly effective for evaluating soft tissues, organs, and blood flow.

Clinical Note: Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate ultrasound scan based on your specific symptoms, medical history, and diagnostic needs.

Abdominal & Renal

WHAT IT IS

A comprehensive scan of major internal organs including the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys.

WHY IT MATTERS

Detects gallstones, liver disease, cysts, and structural abnormalities quickly and non-invasively.

COMMON USE CASES

Unexplained abdominal pain, abnormal blood tests, kidney stones, or fluid accumulation.

Pelvic & Women's Health

WHAT IT IS

Detailed imaging of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, and surrounding pelvic structures.

WHY IT MATTERS

Essential for evaluating reproductive health, diagnosing sources of pain, and monitoring conditions.

COMMON USE CASES

Pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis evaluation.

Obstetric & Fetal

WHAT IT IS

Specialized imaging to monitor the health, growth, and development of a fetus during pregnancy.

WHY IT MATTERS

Ensures safe development and allows doctors to assess fetal anatomy entirely without radiation exposure.

COMMON USE CASES

Routine pregnancy check-ups, gestational dating, anatomy scans, and monitoring fetal heartbeat.

Men's Health

WHAT IT IS

Targeted imaging of the prostate gland, testicles, and surrounding reproductive anatomy.

WHY IT MATTERS

Helps diagnose the underlying cause of pain, swelling, or abnormalities in male reproductive organs.

COMMON USE CASES

Testicular pain or lumps, prostate enlargement, infertility evaluations, and varicoceles.

Vascular Doppler

WHAT IT IS

A specialized ultrasound technique that captures and measures the movement of blood through your vessels.

WHY IT MATTERS

Evaluates blood flow velocity, detects potentially dangerous blockages, and assesses overall vascular health.

COMMON USE CASES

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), varicose veins, poor circulation, and carotid artery blockages.

Musculoskeletal (MSK)

WHAT IT IS

High-resolution imaging of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and soft tissues.

WHY IT MATTERS

Provides dynamic, real-time imaging of joints in motion to pinpoint the exact source of structural pain.

COMMON USE CASES

Tendon tears, ligament sprains, joint inflammation, rotator cuff injuries, and arthritis evaluation.

Thyroid & Neck

WHAT IT IS

Detailed scanning of the thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, and surrounding lymph nodes in the neck.

WHY IT MATTERS

Identifies the exact nature of nodules or cysts and evaluates the overall size and structure of the gland.

COMMON USE CASES

Neck lumps, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, goiters, and monitoring existing nodules over time.

Cardiac (Echocardiogram)

WHAT IT IS

Real-time dynamic imaging of the heart's internal structure, chambers, valves, and pumping efficiency.

WHY IT MATTERS

Assesses the heart's overall function and detects abnormalities in blood flow or structural integrity safely.

COMMON USE CASES

Heart murmurs, unexplained chest pain, shortness of breath, and comprehensive valve disease evaluation.

Appointments available this week

PATIENT GUIDE

Ultrasound Questions

Navigating your diagnostic journey shouldn't be confusing. Here are the most common questions regarding ultrasound procedures, safety protocols, and preparation.

Do I need a doctor's referral for an ultrasound?

Yes. A referral form is required in order to guide us on what exactly your physician is looking for.

Are ultrasound scans safe during pregnancy?

Yes, ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves instead of radiation, making them completely safe and non-invasive for both expectant mothers and their babies.

Will the ultrasound procedure hurt?

Not at all. Ultrasounds are non-invasive and painless. You may feel slight pressure from the transducer as it moves across your skin, but you should not experience any pain.

How should I prepare for my ultrasound?

Preparation depends entirely on the specific type of scan. Some require arriving with a full bladder, while others may require fasting for several hours. You will receive detailed instructions at the time of your booking.

How long does the scan usually take?

Most ultrasound appointments are completed within 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the specific area being examined and the clarity of the images required.

When will I receive my results?

[Please contact our clinic for current policies on turnaround times for diagnostic reports].

La Clinic Du Corps Logo

La Clinic Du Corps Ltd. has been Saint Lucia's premier multi-specialty diagnostic center since 1999, delivering clinical precision and empathetic care across two locations. From MRI and ultrasound to cardiology, gynaecology, and neurosurgery — we are your partner in health.

FOLLOW US

Copyright 2026. LA CLINIC DU CORPS LTD. All Rights Reserved.