An open-bore MRI machine is open on both ends and enclosed by a tube-like bore; it offers a wide opening of approximately two feet. A conventional MRI is also open on both ends but has a smaller opening.
Many people are fearful of MRIs because they have seen the machines before and worry about feeling trapped, especially if they suffer from claustrophobia. The traditional MRI machine is a closed machine, but open machines are becoming increasingly available.
The terms “open” and “closed” as it pertains to MRI, have to do with the shape of the magnets used in MRI scanners. As its name would indicate, a closed MRI, has a capsule-like design where the magnet surrounds the patient.
The most accurate MRI system is the closed MRI scan. You lie in a tube-like, narrow space structure for the scan. Patients often report feelings of claustrophobia while being scanned in a traditional closed MRI. Being obese can make it almost impossible to undergo a closed scan.
They are open, while still using Magnets to take images of the inside of your body. Instead of an enclosed capsule, the open MRI uses a magnet top and bottom and is open on all four sides.
The traditional bore is typically only 60 centimeters wide and it feels “closed” to patients. Those who are claustrophobic may not feel comfortable using the traditional machine, while even those who don't have a phobia may feel uncomfortable.
The open upright MRI scanner made by Fonar minimizes the feeling of claustrophobia because it is open in the front, back and top. People can sit and watch TV during many of the MRI examinations. The upright MRI also has the capability of imaging people in more than one position.
MRIs need anywhere from 15 to 90 minutes to provide doctors with the images they need, so most patients can expect that their MRI will take at least 30 minutes.
An MRI scanner is a short cylinder that's open at both ends. You'll lie on a motorised bed that's moved inside the scanner. You'll enter the scanner either head first or feet first, depending on the part of your body being scanned.
The MRI scanner is generally shaped like a large, covered box with a tunnel passing through it. A table, on which you lie, slides into the tunnel. Both ends of the scanner are open and will not close.
Many MRI procedures don't require your head to go inside the machine at all, but if you need a head or upper spine MRI, you'll appreciate the fact our machine provides a full 12 inches of clearance between your face and the wall – relieving stress for our patients with claustrophobia.
Open MRI machines have two flat magnets on the top and bottom areas, with a large space to accommodate the patient. The open space in between often alleviates discomfort or claustrophobia, as the patient is not fully enclosed.
Procedural Sedation for MRI
When patients are unable to remain still in an MRI machine for prolonged periods due to claustrophobia or other conditions, procedural sedation can enable them to endure the experience and get the valuable information that MRI can provide.
Open MRI sounds more comfortable and freeing. However due to their open structure the images are significantly degraded in terms of visible details, they are lower quality. Lower quality images can lead to misdiagnosis or the wrong treatment.
Claustrophobia Option 1: High-Field Open MRI
RAYUS offers two alternatives to the traditional MRI. The first option is a High-Field Open MRI. Instead of a tube-like machine, this MRI has open sides and nothing pushes on your arms or shoulders.
The time required for a scan depends on various factors, including the type of scan being performed and the patient's size. However, open MRI scans may take a little longer than closed ones since the magnets must be in place longer.
Keep your eyes closed or even wear a blindfold.
It's much easier in an open MRI it's wider than a standard scanner, so patients shouldn't feel any walls touching them.
Traditional closed MRI units have long, cylindrical bores. The center of the body part being imaged has to be at the center of the bore/tube. Due to this requirement, the majority of the patient's body winds up being inside the bore. The downside is obvious: a small space for a long period of time.
For patients who may experience claustrophobia during an MRI scan and require prophylaxis, the University of Wisconsin Department of Radiology suggests the use of Lorazepam (Ativan, Temesta), a short-to-intermediate duration benzodiazepine.
During an MRI, you should use this same method that is used in yoga classes. Take slow, deep breaths to ensure that you are breathing well. If it helps, count to 10 as you breathe in and out, and then gradually slow it down from there. Slow breathing will ensure a calm and relaxed state of mind.
Counting numbers or listening to music: Counting slowly or listening to a soothing melody can help distract you and make the time pass quickly while you are in the scanner. Talk to the Technician: In most instances, you can speak to the technician throughout most of the procedure.
Reactions can include anything from mild anxiety to all out panic attacks and hyperventilating. More to the point, researchers in one study found that as many as 13% of all patients who received an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), reported feelings of panic and or anxiety during their MRI.
Oral Benzodiazepines
Many patients find that an oral benzodiazepine, such as Xanax, Ativan, or Valium, taken prior to the exam sufficiently relieves their anxiety and allows them to complete an MRI with relative ease.