An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is an advanced and modern technological procedure that uses a large magnet and radiofrequencies to produce detailed images of structures and organs in the body in order for professional medical staff to make medical diagnoses. MRI’s, unlike x-rays and CT scans do NOT use radiation.
An OPEN MRI, like the one we have at Brooklyn Open MRI, is more comfortable and convenient for our patients. There are no ‘sides’ to the machine as it is open on all sides. There is NO ‘tunnel’ that a patient would enter. And this design eliminates the feeling of claustrophobia that many patients experience.
MRI exam times vary from as long as an hour to as little as 15 minutes.
Using MRI’s advanced imaging can help detect injuries or abnormalities of the joints, brain and spinal cord, tumors, cysts, and other abnormalities in various parts of the body, as well as certain types of heart problems, diseases of the abdominal organs, causes of pelvic pain in women, and other gynecological issues.
NO! The procedure is painless, though some patients may find it uncomfortable while they remain still for the procedure.
Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing, but be aware that metal must be avoided in or near the region where you are going to be scanned. If you are unsure or have a question, please call NEED NUMBER ahead of time and we’d be happy to help.
We’ll provide headphones, but the purpose is to lessen the sound of the normal operation of the
Because the Open MRI has more open space between the cylinder and patient, most patients do not exhibit claustrophobia. However, there are some steps to take IF this continues to be a problem for the patient. There are medications that can be prescribed by a physician which can aid in diminishing the anxiety associated with the exam.
Yes. Eat normally and continue to take your usual medications prior to the test.
An Open MRI scan is used to diagnose a wide range of diseases and injuries such as:
An Open MRI lets your doctor see the organs, bones, and tissues inside your body without having to do surgery. We recommend Open MRI (instead of traditional MRI) for,
Open MRI examinations do not require any preparation. Patients can eat and drink as they normally do and continue taking any medication unless the doctor says otherwise. We recommend that you wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that is easy to change out of. Patients are advised not to wear jewelry and clothing with metal buckles and zippers.
Open MRI exams take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. At times your doctor may want you to receive an MRI with an enhanced contrast medium. This usually takes a bit longer compared to a regular Open MRI exam. Other factors that decide the length of your exam include whether or not you’re sedated and if your doctor asked for multiple studies.
Open MRI is a safe, pain-free procedure that does not have any known side-effects. However, pregnant women are advised not to receive an MRI exam and patients should always let the technologist know if they have any metal inside or on their body.
Yes! Open MRI scans do not have any physiological effects. Unless you have taken a sedative or a medication with specific restrictions, you should be perfectly fine to drive back after an Open MRI exam.
At Brooklyn Open MRI, we accept most major medical insurance plans as well as Medicare, Medicaid, No-Fault, and Workers’ Compensation. Contact our office at 718-400-6369 should you have any questions about insurance.
