CT and MRI activity in England: insights from the diagnostic imaging dataset

This study aimed to examine increases and variations in CT and MRI activity in England.

Trends in CT and MRI activity between 2016/17 and 2023/24 were assessed from the Diagnostic Imaging Dataset; measured by source of request (A&E, inpatient, outpatient and GP direct access), body part, age, gender and integrated care board (ICB). Trust imaging activity by the number of scanners was assessed using the National Imaging Data Collection.

CT activity increased by 60% (average 6% p.a.) and MRI by 31% (3% p.a.). Apart from the first year of the pandemic, increases over time were observed in all subgroups analysed. Particular increases were observed in the use of CT head/torso, angiographic procedures and whole body. Outpatient requests accounted for the largest number of MRI scans (63%) with A&E/inpatients and GP direct access each accounting for around 16%. MRI of the head accounted for 25% of all MRI activity in 2023/24, with MRI of the spine (26%) and MRI of limbs (16%). However, MRI of the whole body, prostate and radiotherapy planning accounted for the largest proportional increases over time. Major variations were observed between ICBs both for CT and MRI, with the widest variations being for patients referred through GP direct access. Wide variations in activity were seen between trusts with the same number of CT and MRI scanners.

These analyses could contribute to assessments of likely future demand on services and supporting ICBs and trusts in benchmarking activity.