After an accident, you might feel overwhelmed about medical imaging tests, especially when doctors recommend MRI scans. An open MRI offers a comfortable alternative that provides detailed scans without the claustrophobic experience.
City Wide Radiology specializes in open MRI services for accident injuries in Brooklyn, NY, providing patients with diagnostic care in a stress-free environment. In this guide, we will explain this advanced imaging technology and why it’s the preferred choice for diagnosing accident injuries.
What Is an Open MRI and How Does It Work?
In 2018, emergency departments saw 26.2 million injury-related visits, according to the CDC. However, many accident victims delay necessary medical imaging for a diagnosis due to anxiety about traditional MRI machines. Conventional MRI machines have a narrow, tube-like design that triggers feelings of fear and claustrophobia in many patients, but an open MRI is an attractive alternative.
What is an open MRI? It offers a different experience with its spacious, open-sided design, which eliminates confined feelings while still producing high-quality images. Open MRI technology uses the same magnetic fields and radio waves as conventional MRI machines.
With U.S. healthcare providers conducting 40 million MRI scans annually, according to Collective Minds, the growing demand reflects the importance of accessible imaging options. Key advantages include:
- Spacious design. The open configuration features magnetic components positioned above and below patients rather than surrounding them.
- Non-invasive approach. This technology provides comprehensive medical imaging while maintaining patient comfort throughout the entire scanning procedure.
- Universal accessibility. The design accommodates patients of all sizes and those with mobility limitations who may not be able to undergo traditional MRI scans.
The open design delivers clear images necessary for an accurate diagnosis of accident-related injuries.
Hidden Injuries That Require Immediate Detection
Accident injuries don’t always appear immediately after impact, making prompt medical imaging crucial. For example, whiplash injuries may not exhibit any symptoms for days or weeks after the incident.
Open MRI excels at detecting injuries that traditional X-rays can miss:
- Spinal injuries. Open MRI identifies small fractures, herniated discs, and soft tissue damage that may not be visible on standard X-rays.
- Internal damage. The technology reveals hidden injuries to muscles, ligaments, and nerves that could develop into serious complications if left untreated.
- Chronic pain prevention. Early detection and treatment help prevent minor injuries from becoming ongoing health problems.
Our Brooklyn MRI Center Helps Patients Overcome Anxiety and Improves Comfort
Many accident victims postpone imaging due to the fear of traditional MRI procedures. Our Brooklyn imaging center locations offer open MRI technology to address these concerns while maintaining diagnostic accuracy and precision.
The open design provides significant comfort benefits:
- Anxiety reduction. Patients can see their surroundings and interact with technicians throughout the procedure, dramatically reducing stress and claustrophobia.
- Quieter operation. These machines operate with significantly less noise compared to traditional units, creating a more peaceful scanning environment.
- Family support. Parents and caregivers can stay close during children’s scans, providing emotional reassurance and comfort throughout the process.
When patients feel relaxed, procedures become more efficient and produce better diagnostic results.
City Wide Radiology: Trusted Brooklyn Imaging Center for Post-Accident Care
Open MRI technology combines patient comfort with detailed imaging for accurate medical assessment. As the Magnetic Resonance Imaging Organization notes, the MRI industry continues to expand globally, with over 5,000 new machines added annually, reflecting the growing importance of advanced imaging technology.
At City Wide Radiology, we provide state-of-the-art open MRI services that help accident victims receive care without anxiety. Our Brooklyn MRI facility offers the latest technology, operated by certified technicians and interpreted by board-certified radiologists. To learn more about our imaging options, explore our guide to the types of MRI scans available for accident injuries.
Don’t let anxiety prevent you from getting the diagnosis you need after an accident. Contact City Wide Radiology at (718) 236-6800 today to schedule your open MRI appointment.
Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding open MRI technology helps you make informed decisions about post-accident medical care.
How Long Does an Open MRI Take for Accident Injuries?
Most open MRI scans take between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on the body areas examined and the study’s complexity.
Can I Move During an Open MRI Scan?
You must remain still during scans for clear images, but the open design makes it easier to stay comfortable throughout.
Will Insurance Cover My Open MRI After an Accident?
Most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP coverage, typically cover medically necessary MRI scans following accidents.