Advanced Diagnostics

In neurology, the diagnosis drives everything. The right treatment for one condition can be harmful in another that looks identical on the surface. Our diagnostic suite gives our neurologists the clearest possible picture before any treatment decision is made.

Neuroimaging

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) The most detailed soft-tissue imaging available. Essential for diagnosing stroke, MS, brain tumours, dementia, spinal cord conditions, and a wide range of structural neurological disorders. FV’s MRI suite includes dedicated brain and spine protocols, with results reviewed by specialist radiologists and neurologists together.

CT (Computed Tomography) Fast, widely available, and essential in emergencies. CT is the first-line imaging in acute stroke, head trauma, and suspected intracranial haemorrhage. At FV, CT is available 24 hours a day.

MR Angiography and CT Angiography Non-invasive imaging of blood vessels in the brain and neck, used to detect aneurysms, stenosis, arteriovenous malformations, and vascular causes of stroke.

Neurophysiology

Electroencephalography (EEG) Records electrical activity in the brain to investigate seizures, epilepsy, encephalopathy, and altered consciousness. EEG is essential for characterising seizure type, guiding medication choices, and monitoring treatment response.

Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG) Measures the speed and strength of electrical signals in peripheral nerves and muscles. Used to diagnose neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, Guillain-Barré syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and motor neurone disease. These tests answer the question: is the problem in the nerve, the muscle, or the junction between them?

[Note to FV team – Important: Please confirm whether EEG and NCS/EMG are performed in-house at FV or referred out, and whether there is a dedicated neurophysiology service.]

Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)

A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is collected from the lower spine for laboratory analysis. Used to diagnose meningitis, encephalitis, multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and certain dementias. Performed under local anaesthesia with ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance for safety and comfort.

Carotid Ultrasound (Doppler)

Non-invasive assessment of blood flow in the carotid arteries of the neck, used to evaluate stroke risk and guide decisions about carotid intervention.