Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. MRI scans can be done with a closed or open MRI machine. Open MRI machines are becoming increasingly popular due to their many benefits, particularly for patients who experience anxiety or claustrophobia.
In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of having an open MRI.
The most significant benefit of having an open MRI is the comfort it provides to patients. Closed MRI machines are notoriously small and narrow, which can cause a great deal of anxiety for patients, particularly those who suffer from claustrophobia. In contrast, open MRI machines have a much larger opening, which reduces the feeling of confinement and can help to calm anxious patients. As a result, patients may be more relaxed, which can lead to better image quality.
Another benefit of open MRI machines is their accessibility. For patients with mobility issues, getting in and out of a traditional MRI machine can be a challenge. Open MRI machines, on the other hand, are designed with accessibility in mind. They have a larger opening that allows for easy access, making them a great option for patients who use wheelchairs or have difficulty with mobility.
Open MRI machines are also more flexible than traditional MRI machines. Traditional MRI machines are designed for specific types of scans, and patients are often required to be positioned in a very specific way. Open MRI machines, on the other hand, allow for greater flexibility in positioning, which can be beneficial for patients with certain medical conditions.
Traditional MRI machines can be a challenge for larger patients. The small, narrow opening can be uncomfortable and may not accommodate patients who are larger in size. Open MRI machines, on the other hand, are designed with larger patients in mind. The larger opening provides more space, which can be more comfortable for patients who are larger in size.
Patients who are anxious or claustrophobic may require sedation to complete a traditional MRI scan. Sedation can be risky, particularly for older patients or those with certain medical conditions. With an open MRI, patients may not require sedation, as the larger opening and reduced feeling of confinement can help to calm anxious patients.
In conclusion, open MRI machines offer a range of benefits over traditional closed MRI machines. They are more comfortable, accessible, flexible, and accommodating for larger patients, and they may not require sedation. If you are scheduled for an MRI and have concerns about the traditional closed MRI machine, ask your doctor if an open MRI is a suitable option for you.