CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
You can be assured that at HCA UK you will have rapid access to the latest and most advanced diagnostic technologies and techniques, to provide you with an accurate diagnosis without delay.
If you are diagnosed with cancer you will have immediate access to a world-leading team of cancer experts, who will recommend a personalised treatment and care plan based on your individual needs.
You may have been referred by your GP, or another healthcare professional, based on certain symptoms. It is important to remember that your symptoms could be related to another health condition, and do not necessarily mean you have cancer, but it is important to determine your exact diagnosis quickly.
You may have been referred by your GP, or another healthcare professional, based on certain symptoms. It is important to remember that your symptoms could be related to another health condition, and do not necessarily mean you have cancer, but it is important to determine your exact diagnosis quickly.
If you are diagnosed with cancer, you may need additional tests and scans to confirm which type and stage of cancer you have.
Your consultant will discuss the results of these tests with a group of cancer specialists at a multidisciplinary team meeting (MDT). Our MDT’s meet to discuss and recommend the most effective treatment options for you.
During your treatment, your consultant will usually refer you for tests to monitor your cancer, and the effectiveness of your treatment. These tests help your consultant to monitor how well the treatment is working, so they can make adjustments if necessary.
Because diagnosing cancer is complex, we have invested in the most advanced diagnostic tests available.
From standard radiology to advanced techniques, our team have the knowledge, expertise and state-of-the-art facilities to provide the most accurate cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning.
Our state-of-the-art scanning facilities are operated by expert radiologists who specialise in specific tumour types, providing early detection of cancer and highly accurate staging to inform your personalised treatment plan.
CT scans use X-rays and a computer to capture detailed images which can show the size, shape, and location of tumours. CT scans can be used to make an initial diagnosis, plan treatments and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
A PET scan shows how the body's organs and tissues are working. It involves injecting a small, safe amount of radioactive tracer into the bloodstream. A special camera then takes pictures of where this substance goes, helping to diagnose and monitor cancer.
Across our network we are equipped with some of the very latest and most accurate CT and PET CT scanning technology, including 4D CT and PET-CT, which combines PET's metabolic information with CT's anatomical detail.
Ultrasound scans use high frequency sound waves to create images of specific organs or areas inside the body. These scans can be used to help make an initial diagnosis and to assess the effectiveness of cancer treatment. They can also be used to carry out image-guided biopsies.
MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body. MRI can be used to make an initial diagnosis, to stage cancer, inform treatment plans or to monitor the effectiveness of your treatment.
We have invested in the latest MRI scanners to provide you with an accurate diagnosis with clearer and faster results.
A mammogram is an X-ray system to visualise the breast tissue. During the procedure the breast is placed between two plates to spread out the tissue and obtain clear images. Mammograms can detect tumours that are too small to be felt and can help identify changes in breast tissue before they develop into more serious conditions.
DBT, commonly referred to as 3D mammography, uses multiple X-rays to create a three-dimensional picture of the breast. This enhanced image quality enables clinicians to detect small breast cancers with greater accuracy. It is particularly useful for women in their 20s, 30s and 40s, who have naturally dense breast tissue, which can make traditional mammograms harder to interpret.
Blood tests can indicate the presence of cancer by looking for abnormal levels of certain changes, which are caused by cancer cells.
Biopsies involve removing a sample of tissue from a suspected area of cancer for microscopic examination, to confirm or rule out the presence of cancer. The same technique can be used to stage a confirmed cancer. Different types of biopsies include needle biopsy, endoscopic biopsy, and surgical biopsy. Using advanced biopsy techniques and enhanced imaging, we can investigate all types of cancer, including small and difficult-to-access tumours.
Molecular tests are used to analyse biological molecules, such as DNA, RNA and proteins, to detect and diagnose cancer. Results of these tests can also inform personalised treatment options, by analysing individual genetic and molecular information.
Bronchoscopy: The endoscope is passed through the mouth to examine the lungs Colonoscopy: The endoscope is passed through the bottom to examine your colon and rectum
Colposcopy: A colposcopy is a test to take a closer look at the cervix (the opening to the womb from the vagina
Cystoscopy: The endoscope is passed through the urethra (the tube in the penis that carries urine) to examine the bladder
Gastroscopy: The endoscope is passed through the mouth to examine the oesophagus (food pipe), stomach and part of the small intestine
Hysteroscopy: The endoscope is passed through the vagina to examine the womb
We are the first independent healthcare provider to offer the Ion platform, a breakthrough technology transforming the way we diagnose lung nodules. Lung abnormalities can be difficult to reach and diagnose. In the past this has meant that a ‘watch and wait’ approach was often required. Ion has changed this by using robotic-assisted technology to reach small nodules sooner.
If you have a family history of cancer, often referred to as hereditary risk, and would like to understand your personal risk, we offer genetic testing from a team of experienced genetic counsellors and clinical geneticists. They can identify the tests that are appropriate for you, taking into consideration your family history.
They will discuss your test results and, if required, give you advice about risk-reducing strategies and potential treatments. We also provide genetic testing for people who have been diagnosed with certain cancers that may be linked to an inherited condition - this can help to inform treatment plans.
Genomic testing focuses on specific mutations within an individual tumour. Results from these tests can be used to identify the most effective treatment options for each individual, including new and innovative therapies and clinical trials.