Why Not All Brain Scans for Dementia Assessment Are the Same — and Why 3T MRI in London Sets a New Standard
Many patients arrive at our clinic having already undergone MRI scans elsewhere, only to be told that the results were “normal.” Yet when we repeat the scan using advanced 3 Tesla (3T) MRI technology, reviewed by our named expert consultant neuroradiologist, subtle but clinically important findings often come to light.
That’s because not all MRI brain scans for dementia are the same — and not all MRI reports carry the same level of expertise. True diagnostic clarity depends on both the quality of the imaging and the calibre of the expert interpreting it.
The Hidden Difference in Brain Scans for Dementia Assessment
Across the UK, including most private memory clinics even within Harley Street, MRI scanners still operate at 1.5 Tesla. These machines are adequate for general imaging but limited in the fine neuroanatomical detail required to detect early dementia-related changes.
By contrast, a 3 Tesla MRI provides double the magnetic field strength and a much higher signal-to-noise ratio, producing images with exceptional clarity and resolution. This enables detection of minute changes in memory-critical regions such as the hippocampus and temporal lobes that may be invisible on 1.5T scans.
There are only a handful of 3T MRI scanners routinely used for memory diagnostics in the UK. Memory & Brain Clinic London is proud to be among the very few memory clinics that use this technology routinely as part of our same-day Same-Day Diagnostic Clarity Pathway.
“Not all MRI brain scans are equal — the precision of a 3 Tesla scan interpreted by an expert neuroradiologist and informed by full clinical context can transform diagnosis and change a patient’s future.”
— Dr Soumit Singhai FRCP
1.5T vs 3T MRI — Key Differences
The following comparison highlights why 3T MRI represents the gold standard for cognitive and memory assessment.
| Feature | 1.5 Tesla MRI | 3 Tesla MRI |
|---|---|---|
| Magnetic strength | Standard field strength | Double the field strength |
| Image clarity | Moderate | High-definition structural detail |
| Detection of early brain changes | Often limited | Clearly visible |
| Scan duration | Longer | Shorter and more efficient |
| Typical use | General hospital imaging | Advanced neurocognitive diagnostics |
| Availability in private memory clinics | Widespread | Very limited — only a few, including Memory & Brain Clinic London |
Beyond Technology: Expert Neuroradiology and Clinical Context Matter Just as Much
An MRI scan is only as valuable as the expertise behind its interpretation. The difference between a general radiologist, a general neuroradiologist and a specialist cognitive neuroradiologist can profoundly influence the diagnosis.
“In my experience we have had cases where MRIs reported elsewhere — sometimes by neuroradiologists of different calibre or even by general radiologists — were later reviewed by our expert neuroradiologist using a 3 Tesla scan. The higher resolution and specialist review together revealed findings that had been missed before and in several cases changed the diagnosis entirely.”
— Dr Soumit Singhai FRCP
Unfortunately many MRI reports in the private sector are produced by radiologists who lack deep experience in cognitive and dementia imaging. At our clinic every scan is reviewed by our named expert consultant neuroradiologist, a specialist in neurodegenerative and memory disorders, ensuring that each report matches the precision of the imaging itself.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration: The Human Context Behind Every Scan
At Memory & Brain Clinic London accuracy comes from combining technology and teamwork. Each patient’s case is personally discussed in person with our named consultant neuroradiologist, ensuring that every MRI interpretation is informed by full clinical and cognitive context. We don’t simply send scans away for reporting — we collaborate directly with the neuroradiologist for every patient we see.
“At our clinic every MRI is discussed in person with our neuroradiologist on the same day — part of our commitment to precision through direct collaboration,” says Dr Soumit Singhai FRCP, Consultant Geriatrician and Clinical Lead at Memory & Brain Clinic London. “This means the neuroradiologist has the full clinical picture before reporting — not just an image on a screen. That direct communication changes the quality and precision of the diagnosis.”
Our neuroradiologists never report in isolation. They interpret scans with full clinical context rather than viewing anonymous images — a crucial distinction that leads to more meaningful, patient-centred conclusions.
This multidisciplinary consensus model is rare among private clinics but forms the foundation of our Same-Day Diagnostic Clarity Pathway, enabling us to deliver the most accurate and compassionate diagnosis possible — all in a single day.
The Same-Day Diagnostic Clarity Pathway
Our pathway provides a truly same-day diagnostic experience by combining:
- 3T MRI brain imaging for the highest resolution available in clinical practice
- Expert neuroradiologist reporting informed by full clinical context
- LucentAD® Alzheimer’s blood testing for biomarker precision
- Consultant-led review and same-day results discussion
While other clinics may offer same-day assessments, we deliver true same-day diagnostic clarity — integrating advanced imaging, expert interpretation and collaborative decision-making.
In Summary
If you’ve been told your MRI was “normal” it may reflect the limitations of a 1.5T scanner or the experience level of the reporting radiologist. A 3T MRI, interpreted by a dedicated neuroradiologist and supported by multidisciplinary case discussion, can reveal the subtleties that transform diagnosis and care.
For patients and families that difference provides what matters most: answers, direction and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a neuroradiologist interpreting my scan?
Yes. Every MRI is reported by a named expert consultant neuroradiologist with subspecialty experience in memory and neurodegenerative disorders — never a general radiologist.
Is my scan discussed with the clinical expert who is reviewing me?
Yes. We share your clinical details in person with the neuroradiologist and agree a multidisciplinary consensus before giving you your results the same day. We don’t work in silos.
Why is 3T MRI better than 1.5T for older patients?
A 3T MRI offers higher image quality and a shorter scan time, which is especially important for older adults who may find it difficult to lie still during longer scans. This improves both comfort and reliability.
Can you perform scans for patients who cannot tolerate conventional MRI?
Yes. We also provide upright MRI scanning for patients who struggle with enclosed spaces or have mobility issues that make standard MRI uncomfortable.
Can patients with pacemakers undergo MRI at your clinic?
Yes. We have access to MRI-compatible scanning protocols for patients with approved pacemaker systems, allowing safe imaging when indicated.
Why don’t all clinics use 3T MRI scanners?
3T MRI systems are significantly more advanced and costly than 1.5T machines. Most private memory clinics — including many around Harley Street — still use 1.5T equipment. Only a small number, including ours, use 3T MRI routinely for dementia diagnostics.
How quickly will I get my results?
You’ll receive same-day 3T MRI results as part of the Same-Day Diagnostic Clarity Pathway(https://memoryandbrainclinic.co.uk/services/same-day-diagnostic-clarity-pathway), explained directly by your consultant.
Do I need a referral?
No. Patients may self-refer. Our team arranges your 3T MRI, blood tests and consultation seamlessly.
Empowering Patients to Achieve an Accurate Diagnosis by Making Sure They Get the Right MRI
If you or a family member are arranging a private memory clinic assessment in London, the MRI scan is one of the most crucial parts of the process. The quality of this scan — and how it’s interpreted — can directly affect your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Before proceeding, make sure you ask these three key questions:
- Is the MRI scan performed on a 3 Tesla (3T) scanner or a 1.5T scanner?
A 3T scanner provides far greater resolution and detail, helping detect early or subtle brain changes that 1.5T systems may miss. - Is the scan reported by a dedicated consultant neuroradiologist?
Always confirm that your MRI will be interpreted by a consultant neuroradiologist with experience in cognitive and dementia imaging — not a general radiologist. - Will the neuroradiologist discuss their findings in the context of my case with the clinical expert seeing me?
The most accurate diagnosis comes when the neuroradiologist and the clinician communicate directly about your symptoms, test results and background — something we do for every patient we see.
These three questions can make the difference between an ordinary assessment and a truly informed, precision diagnosis.
At Memory & Brain Clinic London our philosophy is simple: technology reveals, expertise interprets and collaboration delivers clarity.
Call to Action
To arrange your same-day memory and brain assessment, contact Memory & Brain Clinic London:
Address: 10 Harley Street, London, W1G 9PF
Telephone: 0207 062 7248
Email: drsinghaisecretary@outlook.com
Website: https://memoryandbrainclinic.co.uk/services/same-day-diagnostic-clarity-pathway
