MRIs are wonderful tools for creating high quality images for identifying and diagnosing various conditions, and over ten million patients receive MRIs every year. However, the confined space of an MRI machine can trigger feelings of claustrophobia and anxiety. Fortunately, Open MRI Brooklyn has an alternative option with open MRIs. An open MRI can allow you to get the care you need without triggering any anxiety or claustrophobia.
Contact us today to schedule a Brooklyn MRI!
What Is an Open MRI?
A typical MRI takes place in an enclosed tube line with magnets that create a magnetic field that takes a picture of the inside of your body, including tissues, blood vessels, and more. The confined space of an MRI can trigger intense anxiety in patients who have fears of tight, enclosed spaces. About 12% of US adults report some level of claustrophobia, so the condition is fairly common.
An open MRI, in contrast, uses an upright or sitting scanner so the patient does not have to lie down in an enclosed space. Instead, they can stay upright and face the outside world, reducing any fears or anxiety that may stem from claustrophobia.
Benefits of Open MRI
Below are just a few reasons that open MRIs are becoming increasingly popular.
More Comfort
Open MRIs can provide more comfort for patients who may not be able to lie down properly in an MRI machine due to injury or physical condition.
Less Anxiety
Above all, open MRIs can also reduce anxiety during medical procedures by removing the tight enclosed space that traditional MRI machines use. Instead, the patient sits in an open space.
Patient Accessibility
Lastly, open MRIs may be more accessible for patients with disabilities or physical conditions that make it more difficult to take a traditional MRI. For example, two in every five American adults are obese, which could make traditional imaging difficult.
Open MRI FAQ
Below are some common questions we receive about open MRIs.
Are Open MRIs Different from Regular MRIs?
No, other than the position of the patient in the machine, open MRIs work exactly the same as regular MRIs. Both use magnet and radio waves to stimulate electrons in the body and create an interior image of the body.
What Are the Disadvantages of Open MRIs?
The main disadvantages of open MRIs are their availability and image quality. It may take longer to get an open MRI as they are less common than traditional machines, and it may create less detailed images due to the design of the image capture chamber.
How Long Does an Open MRI Take?
It normally takes about 45 minutes to an hour for a typical open MRI machine to create a complete image.
Schedule an MRI Appointment Today!
Would you like to learn more about getting an open MIR? If so, read our blog to learn more about the expectations during a brain MRI. You can also send a message online or call the Brooklyn Open MRI front desk today at (718) 400-6369 to schedule an appointment!
