For many patients who avoid MRIs because of claustrophobia, the open MRI machine offers a new path to essential diagnostic imaging. The narrow, enclosed design of traditional MRI machines is enough to make anyone anxious, making the experience challenging for many and virtually impossible for some.
Thankfully, City Wide Radiology provides a much less intimidating experience through open MRI in Brooklyn, NY. This patient-friendly alternative maintains high diagnostic quality. Below, we explore the benefits of open MRI and why it is an excellent option for many patients.
What Is an Open MRI?
The wide-open side in the design of an open MRI system reduces the sensation of confinement and allows patients to feel at ease.
Patients can easily contact a patient assistant during a scan, and assistants can provide ongoing comfort and support by holding a part of the patient’s body during the MRI scan. This innovative design still provides the same powerful diagnostic capabilities of traditionally enclosed systems while helping patients feel more comfortable.
Reduced Anxiety and Increased Comfort
Claustrophobia is an often debilitating condition, and closed MRI systems present severe challenges for some patients. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 12.5% of adults experience some form of claustrophobia. Moreover, the Journal of the American College of Radiology found that up to 30% of patients report significant anxiety during an MRI scan.
Open MRIs allow patients to maintain a sense of space and visibility and are much less likely to trigger an anxiety response than enclosed systems.
Enhanced Accessibility for All Patients
In addition to those with claustrophobia, open MRI in Brooklyn accommodates patients who might struggle with traditional MRI machines’ enclosed nature, including anyone with a larger body or mobility limitations.
The open structure provides more space and flexibility, ensuring that a wide range of patients can receive the diagnostic imaging they need without unnecessary stress. Medical research shows that improvements in imaging accessibility can lead to better patient outcomes, as patients are more likely to obtain necessary scans.
Improved Interaction and Support
Open MRI machines provide an open channel for face-to-face communication between the patient and the technician. The ability to maintain eye contact and communicate freely during the MRI scan often makes a significant difference in the overall experience.
As mentioned above, having a family member or friend present during the entire scan further enhances a patient’s comfort level.
High-Quality Imaging Without Compromise
There is sometimes a lingering misconception that open MRI machines produce lower-quality images than traditional equipment. However, advances in medical imaging technology assure medical professionals and patients that this is not true.
Research has shown that modern open MRI systems provide reliable, high-resolution images suitable for many diagnostic purposes. Design innovations provide combined patient benefits of increased comfort and excellent diagnostic accuracy.
Lower Noise Levels for a Calmer Experience
An additional aggravating factor claustrophobic patients encounter with traditional MRI systems is the loud, sometimes jarring noises the machinery produces. That increases anxiety and can make the experience unbearable for some people.
By their inherent design, open MRI systems reduce the intensity of the noise that occurs during the machine’s operation. The ability to speak directly with technicians or support persons throughout the process can greatly reduce the impact of the machine’s noise.
Pediatric and Geriatric Benefits
Of course, any medical procedure involving children or elderly patients often requires additional support. The less intimidating design of an open MRI makes it a much better choice for parents or caregivers of patients who need essential diagnostic imaging.
Constant visual and verbal contact provides reassurance throughout the scan and helps reduce confusion and stress.
Reduced Need for Sedation
For patients who experience severe claustrophobia with an open MRI machine, sedation is sometimes necessary to obtain clear and accurate images. Of course, that carries an entirely separate group of risks and potential side effects.
With an open MRI, the need for sedatives is greatly diminished, resulting in a safer, simpler imaging process that avoids the complications associated with anesthetic medications.
Enhanced Comfort Means Better Image Results
Of course, MRI technology requires several minutes to obtain accurate results for most scans. A relaxed patient is more likely to remain calm and completely still since anxiety naturally leads to fidgeting or movement.
Improved physical comfort ultimately leads to more precise diagnostics that help referring physicians make accurate treatment plans. Advances in open MRI technology have made many forms of treatment more available to claustrophobic patients.
City Wide Radiology Provides a More Comfortable Option for Claustrophobic Patients
City Wide Radiology helps patients comfortably handle claustrophobia with an open MRI machine. Our welcoming and patient-focused environment also features state-of-the-art 3T high-field MRI technology.
Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available.
Count on our certified technologists and Board Certified Radiologists for diagnostic services provided with precision and care. Call (718) 236-6800 to experience the benefits of an open MRI today.
Open MRI FAQs
These are some of the questions our patients ask about convenient open MRI diagnostics.
Is an Open MRI Suitable for Most Types of Diagnostic Imaging?
Yes, an open MRI is suitable for most types of diagnostic imaging, although traditional closed MRIs are still more suitable for certain scans that require extremely high-resolution images. Recent advancements have significantly improved the imaging quality of open MRIs, making them useful for a wide range of diagnostic needs.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Open MRI Scans?
The risks associated with open MRI scans are essentially the same as those associated with traditional MRI systems. Although they don’t use ionizing radiation like X-rays or CT scans, patients with metal implants or devices should consult their doctor before ordering one.
How Do I Prepare Mentally for an Open MRI If I Am Still Nervous?
If you are still nervous about the process, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or visualization to prepare mentally for an open MRI. Discuss concerns about claustrophobia with an open MRI machine with the technician, and bring a companion for support if you can.