Open MRI Exams

What is an MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic imaging technique that combines a powerful magnetic field with computer technology to produce very detailed images of the body’s soft tissues - muscles, ligaments, knee meniscus, the nervous system, and the brain.

An MRI is a painless and non-invasive method used by physicians to look inside the body without using X-rays or radiation. It provides an accurate image of most abnormalities and can often reduce the need for biopsies, exploratory surgery, and other more invasive procedures. To the best of our knowledge, there are no known side effects from an MRI scan.

Open MRI

Our Open MRI facility provides you with a quieter, more comfortable exam, while still producing the high-quality, detailed images that your physician needs for an accurate diagnosis.

The larger opening permits easy access during the exam, which can be especially helpful for those who are claustrophobic. Open MRI is a terrific alternative for those individuals who are restricted by the smaller size constraints of a closed MRI. Open MRI is also less threatening for children than the closed tunnel. Additionally, due to the open sides found on Open MRI equipment a family member or friend may accompany an apprehensive patient during the scan.

Wide-open space and a full view outside the scanner.

Our Open MRI is different than Closed MRI systems. It helps to eliminate feelings of anxiety by giving you:

• a space that is 3 times more wide-open than a traditional MRI scanner
• an almost 180-degree panoramic view
• detailed images for your doctor to evaluate your condition

The non-confining Panorama will help you feel at ease if you are:

• uncomfortable in tight spaces
• a larger patient
• afraid or unable to be scanned in a cylindrical scanner
• vulnerable or physically challenged patient

What Makes our MRI Center Different From the Others?

We pride ourselves on superior patient comfort. We can accommodate patients with large physiques up to 450 pounds, and patients who have anxiety or are considered claustrophobic. Additionally, Pediatric patients who need to be accompanied by a parent can be comfortably accommodated in our open scanner.

Our offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 7pm. We can accommodate early morning through late evening appointments on request.

After the MRI

Your MRI scans will be interpreted by our board certified radiologists. They will then send a written report which will be ready in 24 – 36 hours. This report will be sent to your referring physician and to any other physician that you request. A CD disc of your scans can be made at the time of service or we can make the disc for you to pick up at your convenience. Your physician may also access your scan through our password-protected Physician Portal. Your referring physician is the only person authorized to discuss with you the results of your exam.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a painless and non-invasive method used by physicians to view the human body and obtain anatomical and functional diagnostic information.

How Safe is Open MRI?
Open MRI is quite safe in the majority of patients. However, certain patients may not be able to have an MRI. These include people with implanted medical devices such as aneurysm clips in the brain, pacemakers and cochlear (inner ear) implants. Also, people with pieces of metal close to or in an important organ (such as the eye) may not be scanned.

What Happens During the Exam?
Most examinations will take 45-90 minutes. During this time, you will lie flat on a padded table. Some patients even fall asleep during the exam! While you are having your test, you may listen to our selection of CD's or you may bring your own.

During your exam, the technologist can see and hear you at all times. The technologist is always available if assistance is needed. You will hear thumping and clicking noises while the images are being obtained. During this time, it is important not to move, as this would blur the pictures. For some exams your doctor may order an injection. This is called a "contrast agent". It is very safe and unrelated to the iodine-based contrast used for CAT scans and kidney x-rays.

Is There any Preparation Needed?
No special preparation is needed for open MRI examination. Patients should wear comfortable, loose clothing and if possible avoid undergarments with metal. Watches, metal objects in pockets, and credit cards with magnetic strips will not be permitted in the MRI room. A changing room is provided so you can lock up any valuables. For certain exams you may be asked to change into scrubs top and pants or a gown. Additionally, for studies of the brain and orbits, no eye makeup or dark polish should be used.

What are the Advantages of the MRI Scan?
Open MRI scanners are designed to visualize non-bony parts or "soft tissue" areas such as muscles, ligaments and tendons. In particular, the brain, spinal cord and nerves are seen much more clearly with open MRI than with regular x-rays and CAT scans.

Open MRI scans are commonly used to look at knees, shoulders and spines following injuries.

What is Magnetic Resonance Angiography?
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is technology developed to image the blood vessels. The procedure is done in the open MRI scanner and is as painless as the MRI. This procedure gives the specialized radiologist a detailed view of the blood vessels.

What Makes our MRI Center Different From the Others?
We pride ourselves on superior patient comfort. We can accommodate large patients, up to 450 pounds, and claustrophobic patients. Pediatric patients who need to be accompanied by a parent can be comfortably accommodated in our open scanner.

Our offices are open Monday through Saturday from 8am to 8pm. We accommodate early morning through late evening appointments.

How soon will my Doctor get the Results?
Specialized radiologists will read your diagnostic images and prepare a report for your physician. Your physician will have the results of your test in 24 to 36 hours.

Which Insurance Companies do you Accept?
We accept all major insurances. (Click here for a partial listing.) We also submit third party billing for you. We will contact your insurance company for you to determine any pre-certification requirements or out of pocket expenses.

If your open MRI exam will not be covered by insurance, please contact us to make financial arrangements that are convenient for you. We do offer day of service discounts for self-paying patients or those with high deductibles or copays.

What if I have more Questions?
We at MRI of Springfield do our utmost to provide professional care and comfort for our patients. We realize you may experience anxieties and we are here to assist you with your concerns. If you should have any questions or concerns, please contact us at (417) 885-1100 or toll free at (866) MRI-STAT.