How Does Open MRI Work?

An open MRI mostly uses magnets, which are very powerful in taking images of the body in a cross-section manner. Radio waves are also used to ensure that the images come out as clearly as possible.

The scanning techniques are non-invasive and are used by computer systems, which are powerful and do not emit ionizing radiation that can be very dangerous to the body. It's very important to note that an open MRI doesn't provide a 360-degree body view.

Depending on the model of an open MRI, the body is scanned using magnets below or above to ensure the perfect image is obtained.

Below are some of the advantages of open MRI;

 

It Promotes Equity

Patients who are disabled find it very hard to use a closed MRI, and they can feel very isolated if forced to use it. However, an open MRI ensures that the patients are transported without a hitch, ensuring that they get scanned properly.

 

It Is Less Expensive.

Open MRI is less expensive, especially when it comes to maintenance and upfront costs, as compared to closed MRI. The lower expense comes from the fact that an open MRI has permanent magnets and uses a cryogenic design. Though the magnetic field is reduced, it may be challenging to diagnose some problems that might require a proper scan.

 

It Is Less Enclosed

Due to it being less enclosed, patients are at a lower risk of getting panic attacks as compared with using a closed MRI. Since the unit doesn’t necessarily fully enclose the body, it allows the patients to be as free and comfortable as possible in the open MRI.

 

It's Quieter

An open MRI is usually very quiet compared to a closed MRI. Even though sounds can be heard, it is very unlikely that they will affect a patient in any way whatsoever.

 

Its Child Friendly

Many times, children don't respond well to being put in small and tight spaces, especially if they are left all by themselves. Hence, an open MRI makes it very easy to scan children without them making a fuss about anything.

One of the disadvantages include;

 

It’s not ideal for all body types

Not all bodies can be scanned by using open MRI. Because of the shape of an open MRI, certain body parts cannot be scanned properly, and this may result in the images being of low quality. In conclusion, an open MRI is efficient in that not only does it provide comfort to patients being scanned, but it also ensures that the images obtained are of good quality.

Sources

1.  https://www.blog.mriplus.co.uk/open-mri-scans-for-claustrophobia

2.  https://www.healthimages.com/open-mri-vs-closed-mri/

3.  https://www.independentimaging.com/open-mri-vs-closed-mri-difference-one-best-suited/#:~:text=Instead%20of%20an%20enclosed%20capsule,to%20accurately%20diagnose%20their%20problems.

 

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