If you or an aging loved one feels uneasy about sliding into a narrow, tunnel-like scanner, you are not alone, and you may have other options. This guide covers why seniors often choose an open MRI in Brooklyn, NY, instead.
How Open MRI Works
An open scanner means the patient is not fully enclosed inside a tube. These machines use the same basic science as other magnetic resonance imaging devices to create detailed images of your body. The lower magnetic field strength compared to closed models may affect image quality, but newer high-field open systems are changing that.
Benefits of Open MRI for Seniors
Diagnostic Imaging reports that between 10 and 14.5% of traditional MRI exams terminate early because of anxiety, claustrophobia, or panic attacks. Open systems present an excellent alternative. In fact, according to Grand View Research, the global open MRI systems market was valued at $1.63 billion in 2023 and was projected to grow until at least 2030.
Here are several reasons older adults favor this option:
- Less confinement
- Easier access for mobility challenges
- A reduced need for sedation due to anxiety
- A quieter experience than a closed tunnel
- Support from a loved one nearby
The open scan also has more room for larger body types and makes positioning easier.
Why Seniors Prefer Open MRI in Brooklyn
According to Imaging Technology News, there are more than 54 million Americans aged 65 and older, which is raising demand for technologies like MRI. The reasons why seniors prefer open MRI scans include dignity and convenience. Seeing the room and breathing in open air helps people stay relaxed and hold still, which can support clearer images.
When you weigh open MRI versus traditional MRI for elderly patients, the only real trade-off is image detail. Traditional closed scanners tend to produce the sharpest images for certain detailed brain scans, while more routine imaging options for seniors favor open MRI.
Choose Comfort and Clarity With Brooklyn Open MRI
There are great advantages of an open MRI for orthopedic injuries, and the technology is also helping older adults get the care they need. To schedule an appointment in New York, call Brooklyn Open MRI today at (718) 400-6369.
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
Beyond noting the clear comfort advantages of open MRI imaging, seniors and their loved ones often have questions. Here are some common concerns patients ask the Brooklyn Open MRI team.
Are Open MRI Scans Good for Claustrophobic Patients?
Open MRI scans are a better fit for claustrophobic patients. The scanner typically stays open on two sides, and patients can see some of the surrounding room.
How Long Does an MRI Take at Your Brooklyn Imaging Center?
In Brooklyn, our open MRI usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the body area and the number of images.
Does Medicare Cover Your Brooklyn MRI Scans for Seniors?
Medicare generally covers an open MRI when a physician deems it medically necessary for diagnosis or monitoring of a condition. The patient’s coverage details depend on their plan.