MRI and CT

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) at Medicinski center Ljubljana are performed by Medilab, a radiology diagnostic centre operating since 1997. Medilab's other unit is at Vodovodna 100 in Šiška.

Scans are done with a referral, under the ZZZS public scheme, and on a self-pay basis. The images are read and reported by specialist radiologists. At the centre, enter through the MCL West entrance on the first basement level or from the garage on Hacquetova ulica; check in at reception or follow the signs for MR and CT.

MRI images the inside of the body with a magnet and radio waves, without X-rays. CT uses X-rays and a computer, so it is generally not suitable during pregnancy.

At the centre, MRI covers the head, including the facial skeleton, with protocols for multiple sclerosis and epilepsy; the abdominal organs, including the liver and bile ducts (MRCP); the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine; the sacroiliac joint; and the heart.

CT at the centre covers the chest and lungs, the abdomen, and CT angiography of the blood vessels, including the pelvic arteries. Scans may be done with or without a contrast agent, as decided by the radiologist based on the referral.

MRI of the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle and foot, prostate MRI, MR angiography of the brain vessels, CT of the head and skeleton, and CT angiography of the coronary arteries are done only at Vodovodna 100. After triage of the referral, some protocols can only be done at one of the two locations, so you will be told where your scan takes place when you book.

Most MRI scans need no preparation. Wear light clothing without metal buttons or clips, and remove metal objects, your watch, cards and electronic devices before the scan. Always tell the staff if you have metal fragments, a pacemaker or another electronic device in your body. If you are afraid of enclosed spaces, talk to your referring doctor beforehand.

CT usually needs no special preparation, but sometimes you must fast; you will be told when you book. Tell the staff if you have ever reacted to a contrast agent or are allergic to medicines.

Once you have an appointment, read the instructions and complete the consent form for your scan; the forms are published at medilab.si. Bring your referral, your health insurance card, all documentation related to your condition, and a CD of any previous scan if you have one.

Booking is handled by Medilab; appointments cannot be booked on this website. With a referral, book through e-booking at narocanje.ezdrav.si, by e-mail to info@medilab.si with a copy of your documentation and your phone number, or by phone on 01 589 46 80, Monday to Friday between 8:00 and 18:00.

For a self-pay scan, send your name, mobile number and a short description of your symptoms or previous results to info@medilab.si. Once they have reviewed your documentation, they will call you to agree on an appointment. Waiting times and the self-pay price list are published at medilab.si; waiting times are updated every Wednesday.