NOT knowing what to expect can be daunting, especially if it involves your health.

But a new video featuring an Oxford man aims to allay patients’ fears over MRI scans.

John Milnes, from Brook Street, South Oxford, is the focus of a new video showing patients what to expect from an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan.

The 64-year-old was diagnosed with colon cancer, and secondary tumours in the liver four years ago.

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CT (computerised tomography) and MRI scans at the Churchill Hospital identified the tumours and allowed doctors to treat them effectively.

Six MRI scans and four treatments later, and Mr Milnes was recovering and eager to help ease patients’ fears.

Mr Milnes said: “When I was offered an MRI scan it produced a lot of really important information about my condition.

“I would strongly recommend it. It’s slightly uncomfortable but that is nothing compared to what a brilliant way it is for doctors to find out what your condition is and to choose the right treatment for you.”

He added: “Having an MRI scan for the first time is potentially quite daunting.

“I would have loved something like this showing me what to expect before I had mine.”

Churchill Hospital conducts about 7,000 MRI scans each year and Mr Milnes’ video will be made available to everyone undergoing the process.

The nine-minute film demonstrates of the entire process from receiving the appointment letter to experiencing the scan and getting your results.

It was co-ordinated by Oxford Academic Health Science Network (Oxford AHSN), which is considering producing similar videos for other scans, and at more hospitals, if feedback from the video is positive.

Imaging network manager Jenni Lee said: “John’s presence was crucial in making the short film credible for patients. We hope it helps others going through a similar experience.”

Prof Fergus Gleeson, divisional director of clinical support services at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “An immediate aim of the imaging network is to make radiology departments more user-friendly and improve public understanding of the services provided.

“To help with this, videos will be made of patients undergoing imaging tests such as MRI and CT – this is the first of these.”

Churchill Hospital superintendent radiographer Anthony McIntyre said: “Anything that helps to make it a less stressful environment for patients is a good thing thing for everybody.

“The video dispels several myths – I would recommend that patients watch it before they come in if they have any doubts.”

To see the video, go to youtube.com/watch?v=D02MT9m4rww


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