What alternative investigations are available that do not use X rays or radioactivity?
Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) do not use X rays or radioactivity. Ultrasound is particularly useful for examining the pelvis and abdomen, particularly in pregnancy and also for the breast, testes and soft tissues of the neck and limbs. Where available, MRI is increasingly used for scanning the head, spine and joints. As not all radiology departments will be able to offer these scans your doctor will be the best person to advise on the best investigation for you.
