FAQ Open MRI
- Is open MRI better than conventional MRI?
- How open is an open magnet? Is there a weight limit for patients having an open MRI exam?
- I'm anxious and worried about having claustrophobic reaction to my MRI examination.
Do you have any advice?
1. Is open MRI better than conventional MRI?
Though patients should find examination in an open magnet quite
comfortable, the field strength of ALL open magnets will result
in longer scan times and in images with overall lower resolution
than those obtained from high field, conventional short bore MRI
units. The image resolution required for certain studies such as,
MRI or MRA of the head (brain) and post surgical spinal examinations
are usually best performed on conventional short
bore MRI units.
2. How open is an open magnet? Is there a weight limit for patients having an open MRI exam?
Patient size rather than weight may prevent examination on a open MRI magnet. The Hitachi Airis II Open MRI
System at Union Avenue Open MRI measures 3.5 feet (side to side
opening), 17 inches (top to bottom, height of opening). The scanning table is height adjustable. The magnet
is open on the front back and sides. Patients weighing under 450 pounds can usually be accommodated in these
circumstances.
3. I'm anxious and worried about having claustrophobic reaction to my MRI examination. Do you have any advice?
It is estimated that 30% of the general public can experience claustrophobic
symptoms, anxiety reactions during a MRI exam. In conjunction with
oral sedation, short bore MRI
can provide a quality alternative to open MRI for claustrophobic
patients. Short bore images have higher image resolution / quality
overall. Open MRI was developed in part to provide an alternative
for patients, who may be sensitive to small spaces typical of the
tubular configuration of conventional MRI scanners.
For recommendations and more information see, anxiety / claustrophobia.
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