Open MRI

Open MRI (Open Magnetic Resonance Imaging) use the same, advanced diagnostic imaging procedure as traditional MRI machines. Both create detailed images of internal bodily structures without the use of x-rays, using instead a powerful magnet, radio waves and a computer.

The difference is that an open MRI does not completely surround the patient. Instead a portion of the machine is open to the outside, allowing for increased comfort and space. This form of MRI is particularly suitable for claustrophobic patients.

—Two Views

The technologist will take you into the open MRI suite where you will be positioned on the open MRI scan table. A coil, which functions as an antenna to receive the scan information, will be placed under, beside, or around the area to be scanned. You will be given hearing protection, as the scanner is very loud during imaging. A “zero point” will be established, and the table will move that point into the middle of the scanner. You will notice that the sides of the machine are open. The table may move in farther or back out a little during the exam, but it never moves up or down once you are inside the machine.

The technologist begins the scan at the scan console on the other side of the window. You are always within sight of the technologist, and you can be heard and reached within moments if you were to need us. It is crucial that you hold still during the scan and continue to maintain that position between scans. Moving during the scan causes blurred images, and moving between scans causes the computer to scan in the wrong area.

The noise will last typically from one to six minutes per series, and a minimum of 4 series are required per exam, with some exams requiring up to about 6 or 8 series.

If your doctor ordered a contrast injection, approximately two-thirds of the exam will be completed, then you will be brought out of the scanner for an MRI contrast to be injected into a vein in your arm. The contrast is a gadolinium compound that affects abnormal tissues and causes them to appear “enhanced” compared to the images done before the injection. Once the injection is complete, you will go back into the scanner for the final third of the exam.

Prior to your MRI scan, you will be asked a series of questions that will determine if you are a candidate for an open MRI exam. You will be asked, for example, if you have:

• A pacemaker/defibrillator

• Shunts or stents

• Certain implants, such as ear implants, penile implant, breast tissue expanders, or a nerve stimulator

• Bone growth stimulator 

• Metal fragments in your eyes

• And a number of other metal- or electronics-related questions

Not all items on the list are dangerous, but some are. If you have a pacemaker, even an MRI conditional pacemaker, you will need to talk to your physician before scheduling an appointment. MRI conditional pacemakers require specific monitoring devices during the exam that can only be done at certain facilities. Other concerns about metal or implants will be discussed during the scheduling process. Once you are cleared for internal metals or potentially hazardous objects, you will be instructed to change clothing to remove zippers, snaps, etc. that may interfere with your exam.

For some exams, females will be required to remove a bra if it has the hook closure and/or underwire. Wearing a metal-free sports bra may be your preference on test day. You will be issued a locker to use during the exam, where you will lock personal belongings for safekeeping during the test. Your purse and/or wallet, keys, phone, tablet, etc. will be placed in the locker with your clothing. Your hearing aids must be removed, as well as your watch. Other jewelry will be removed if it could interfere with the image quality. Not all objects interfere, so detailed instructions will be given, always with your safety as the primary concern.