BrainKey Scan

Your appointment involves brain MRI sequences followed by specialist AI analysis. The scan is non-invasive, meaning no needles or contrast agents are required.

The process will usually follow these steps:

1. You’ll complete an MRI safety questionnaire before your scan.

2. A radiographer will explain the scan and answer any questions.

3. You’ll lie on the MRI scanner bed, which moves into the scanner.

4. You’ll be asked to keep as still as possible while the MRI images are taken.

5. BrainKey is used to analyse the MRI data using AI.

6. Your consultant will receive your personalised report, which may include 3D brain views, brain volume information, and BrainAge results.

MRI scanners can be noisy, so you’ll be given earplugs or headphones. The radiographer controls the scan from a separate room, but they can hear and speak to you throughout through an intercom system within the scanner. We recognise that some patients experience claustrophobia when having MRI scans. If you’re affected, please let us know, and we’ll do all we can to help you feel comfortable and supported. 

Your report must be reviewed in the right clinical context. This means your consultant will consider your symptoms, medical history, family history, lifestyle, and any other test results before advising you on the next steps.

A BrainKey report may include information about:

• brain volume

• brain region measurements

• MRI-based BrainAge

• how some measurements compare with people of a similar age and sex

• changes over time, if you have repeat scans

• personalised brain health recommendations

The BrainAge score compares your MRI-based brain age with your actual age. In the sample report, a BrainAge within 7 years of your actual age is described as within the typical range.

It’s important to understand that BrainAge is not a diagnosis. A higher or lower BrainAge does not confirm that you do or don’t have a brain condition. It’s one piece of information that may help guide a clinical discussion.

MRI is considered a safe scan for many people because it does not use ionising radiation. However, it is not suitable for everyone.

Possible risks or limitations include:

• you may feel uncomfortable lying still during the scan

• the scanner can feel narrow or noisy, which may be difficult if you have claustrophobia

• some metal implants or devices may not be MRI-safe – Welbeck is one of the few private facilities in the UK to offer MRI to patients with a pacemaker or implantable defibrillator

• some results may need further review, tests, or specialist referral

You usually do not need major preparation before a BrainKey scan. You can normally eat, drink, and take your usual medicines unless your clinical team tells you otherwise.

Before your scan, you should:

• bring details of any implants, devices, or previous surgery

• remove jewellery, watches, hair clips, hearing aids, and any other metal items

• tell the team if you are pregnant or may be pregnant

• tell the team if you feel anxious in small spaces

• bring previous brain scan reports or images, if you have them

• wear comfortable clothing without metal fastenings, if possible

There’s no recovery time after a standard BrainKey scan. You can usually return to work, drive, and continue your normal routine straight away.

After your scan, your MRI data will be analysed and used to create your BrainKey report. Your consultant will explain what the results mean at a follow-up appointment and whether any further tests, monitoring, or specialist referrals are recommended.

If your report shows something that needs further review, this does not always mean there’s a serious problem. Many scan findings need to be interpreted alongside your symptoms and medical history.

Please contact the centre for pricing information. 

At Welbeck, our specialists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book a BrainKey scan, you must be referred by either your GP or a specialist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a specialist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.