WHAT IS OPEN MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (OPEN MRI) AND HOW DOES IT WORK? back to top
Open Magnetic Resonance Imaging (Open MRI) is one of the most accurate methods of diagnostic imaging available today. Open MRI enables your physician to view the human body without the use of x-rays or invasive procedures and obtain precise diagnostic information.
Open MRI utilizes a strong magnetic field and radio frequency waves to construct a computer image. The image is then printed on a special film that is reviewed by a radiologist.
For some MRI procedures contrast media, commonly referred to as "dye", is sometimes given intravenously during certain scans to provide the physicians with additional information.
An Open MRI differs from a traditional
MRI in that it:
- Provides a more relaxed, less confining environment than traditional MRI
- Lower noise levels. Open MRI systems produce less knocking noise compared to traditional MRI systems. Your favorite cassette tape or CD can be played during the procedure.
- A friend or family member can be in the room during your procedure provided they do not have any contraindications to the MRI scanner. Your friend or family member will be subject to the same safety screening process as required for you.
While we use advanced Open MRI technology, your physician may determine that your MRI procedure should be performed on a traditional high field strength MRI system.
IS OPEN MRI FOR EVERYONE? back to top
Although Open MRI is an effective diagnostic tool, certain medical conditions
will prevent individuals from having an Open MRI. Please inform your physician and our center personnel at the time of scheduling if you have either of the following:
- Cardiac Pacemaker
- Implantable Cardioverter Difibrillator (ICD)
Other certain medical conditions
may prevent individuals from having an Open MRI. Please inform your physician and our center personnel at the time of scheduling if you have any of the following:
- Metal fragments located in one or both eyes
- Inner ear implants
- Metal fragments or prosthesis within the body
- Pregnancy
- Certain type aneurysm clips
- Other certain type of electrical or magnetic activated implants
It is very important that if you are pregnant or there is a possibility of pregnancy, or if you are breast feeding, that you inform your physician and the center personnel prior to your Open MRI.
If any of these conditions exist, your physician and/or the center radiologist will determine if you can be safely imaged or recommend an alternative diagnostic imaging procedure that can be safely performed for your condition.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR AN OPEN MRI?
- We request that you arrive at least 15-30 minutes prior to your scheduled procedure time to complete paperwork and to change clothes if necessary.
- Please wear loose-fitting clothes without zippers or snaps or metal objects. We may request that you to change into a clinic gown.
- Please bring the written prescription your physician gave you for this procedure.
- You will be requested to complete a detailed MRI screening questionnaire asking certain safety questions. This includes questions relating to pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillator’s (ICD’s), aneurysm clips, metal implants, metallic foreign bodies, pregnancy, breast feeding, body piercing, and tattoos.
- You should take all of your usual medications, but inquire about taking sedation or pain medication prior to your procedure if you have a fear or anxiety of small spaces or cannot lie still for 30-60 minutes at a time due to pain an/or anxiety condition.
- If your Open MRI procedure requires sedation or pain medications, please bring a driver and notify our scheduling department.
- Most Open MRI procedures do not have eating or drinking restrictions; however, our staff will inform you of any dietary restrictions that may be required at the time your procedure is scheduled.
- No metal objects are allowed in the scan room. This includes, but is not limited to jewelry, watches, credit or bankcards, hairpins, clips or barrettes, wigs, hearing aids, beepers, keys or key chains, and loose pocket change.
- You should remove all eye make-up before your procedure. Some make-up contains metal that may distort the images.
- It is recommended that all body piercing jewelry be removed prior to the procedure. Some body piercing jewelry contains metal that can be a safety concern or can distort the images.
- You will be provided a locker to store your personal items; however, we recommend that you leave all unnecessary valuables at home.
- We strongly encourage you to ask questions and discuss any concerns you may have prior to your procedure. We strongly believe that communication with our patients is an important part of the service we provide.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING AN OPEN MRI?
- You may be asked to change into a clinic gown and escorted to the Open MRI room.
- An Open MRI technologist will assist you on to the padded exam table and position you for the procedure.
- During the procedure, you will need to lie as still as possible; movement can cause blurred images requiring the technologist to repeat part of the procedure.
- You will hear knocking sounds during the procedure. Earplugs, headphones, or music will be provided for your comfort.
- The Open MRI technologist will be in constant communication with you during the procedure using a two-way microphone system.
- For your comfort, blankets and/or pillows will be provided upon request. The Open MRI exam room is typically cool in order to ensure that the computer system operates properly.
- Some patients may require an intravenous injection of a contrast material to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels.
- Our goal is to provide you with a pleasant and comfortable Open MRI procedure. If you are uncomfortable in any way, please inform your technologist.
HOW LONG WILL THE OPEN MRI TAKE? back to top
A typical Open MRI procedure will last 30-60 minutes depending on the specific procedure requested by your physician.
WHEN DO I GET MY OPEN MRI RESULTS? back to top
Our certified technologist will prepare your Open MRI Images for the radiologist to evaluate. The radiologist will interpret your results and dictate a written report, which will be forwarded to your physician within 72 hours of completion of your procedure. Your physician will convey the results of the Open MRI to you.
