Open MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non invasive procedure used by radiologist to view the different parts of the body in an in-depth way. MRI used magnetism to display 3 dimensional images of body parts with accuracy. The MRI procedure is painless and there are no known side effects, either short or long term. It does not use ionizing radiation like X-rays.

As technology advances different forms of MRI are invented such as Open MRI and Standing MRI. Open MRI in contrast with the conventional tunnel machine allows patient to see the surrounding and this is perfect for patient who is suffering from Claustrophobia or obesity.

Often clinics or hospital with an open MRI have paintings on its surrounding, music, and soft lights to make patients feel at ease.

The technologist will ask series of question such as allergies etc, to ensure the safety of the procedure. He will also ask you to remove any metallic material (jewelries) as this may interfere with the procedure.

It is best to tell your doctor if you have the following conditions: Your physician can decide or can give you an alternative procedure other than MRI.

With Open MRI, Patients are held in position with Velcro-padded straps; bolsters may be added for support and comfort. Devices capable of sending and receiving radio frequency waves are placed near the area to be scanned (coil). For scans requiring the patient to swallow contrast material or receive an injection of contrast into the bloodstream, an IV line will be set-up when the patient is lying on the exam bed. The table is then moved into the tube, either all or part of the way, and usually does not move during the procedure. During the scan, which lasts between 15 and 45 minutes, noise emanates from inside the cylinder as the radio frequency waves are activated but in general Open MRI machine are quieter than its counterpart. Patients with claustrophobia or physical conditions creating pain while lying still may be sedated. After the technologist has completed the scans, he/she will look them over for clarity and precision before releasing the patient from the table.

What to Know Before the Procedure

There is little preparation for a scan so, unless told otherwise, the patient may follow their regular daily routine, diet, and medication administration. When the abdomen or pelvis is scanned, patients may be asked to restrict their food and fluid intake prior to the procedure. If a patient will be sedated for the procedure, it is advisable to have someone else drive at discharge. If contrast material is used, there is a potential for an allergic reaction which can be resolved

immediately by attending personnel. The contrast material can be difficult for the kidneys to eliminate, therefore, patients with kidney disease need to alert the technologist. An MRI is contraindicated for pregnant women.

What to Know After the Procedure

Patients can leave the facility as soon as they feel comfortable and may resume normal activities immediately. Those who have been sedated or received contrast material will be monitored until any ill effects have subsided and they are able to leave safely.

A radiologist reviews the images and prepares a report on his/her findings for the patient's doctor. This report and the images may be available through an internal network or the Internet which allows the referring doctor and the patient to look at them. A follow-up conversation between patient and doctor will involve treatment plans, medication, and/or surgery, as necessary.