The Open MRI Scan

An MRI is a type of diagnostic scan that allows the doctor to see inside the body. It gives a few more details than an x-ray would give so that the doctor can see if there are any areas of bleeding or if there are any tumors that might be in the body. A traditional MRI machine is one with a closed tube that can sometimes feel smaller than it really is, which can lead to some patients not being comfortable in the machine. The open MRI offers benefits for all patients so that they can get the medical treatment that they need without being in an enclosed space.

One of the benefits of an open MRI in Jersey hospitals and offices is that it is suitable for larger patients. At times, the closed chamber might be too small for obese patients. This can hinder the diagnosis of a condition. With the open system, the patient can lay on a table with the machine circling around the person, offering more comfort while the scan is being completed. This gives doctors a chance to help patients of all sizes so that they can receive medications and possible surgeries as other patients receive.

Children sometimes become afraid when they go to a doctor’s office. They might not know what to expect, and when they see a large machine like the MRI, they sometimes become apprehensive. An advantage to the open MRI system is that there is enough room on the table for a parent to lay with the child so that the child is comforted during the scan. If a parent isn’t able to lay with the child, then a nurse can be there instead. The child can also hold a stuffed animal as a way to feel secure.

The open MRI is an advantage for older patients as well. Some elderly individuals aren’t able to move as easily as younger patients. This can be difficult when it comes to laying on a slender table that fits inside a small chamber. With the open layout, there is more room for the patient to lay, and it’s often easier to adjust the height of the table for those who can’t bend down as far.