Written question asked by John Whitby (Labour) on Monday, 1 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 3 June 2026. It was answered by Sharon Hodgson (Labour) on Monday, 8 June 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Craniocervical Instability: Diagnosis

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment his department has made into the potential use of upright MRI scans to diagnose Craniocervical Instability, particularly as it relates to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Answer: Diagnostic investigations for suspected craniocervical instability in patients with Ehlers Danlos syndromes, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography, are available through existing National Health Service pathways. Access to more specialised imaging, such as upright or dynamic MRI, is determined locally and used in limited circumstances based on clinical need and the available of clinical evidence. There are no current plans to expand national provision. The commissioning of imaging services, including access to particular technologies, is the responsibility of local integrated care boards, informed by national guidance.

Secondary information