Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an advanced, safe, and pain-free imaging technique that combines radio waves and magnets to capture detailed images of the body’s structure. This makes the MRI perfectly suited for muscles, organs, and other soft tissues. Up until now, the MRI has been a closed structure that, while painless, hasn’t given people the open space they crave. Now, the Advanced Open MRI is taking the technology of MRIs to a whole new comfort level.
Advanced Open MRI at American Health Imaging
We’re thrilled to announce the addition of the Advanced Open MRI to our line of imaging technology. American Health Imaging of Decatur now has one of only three found in the United States. This innovative technology is changing the clinical approach toward imaging by offering a completely open and upright environment that facilitates full weight-bearing scans. This new technology is perfect for those that may have found the previous MRI too claustrophobic.
The Advanced Open MRI is completely open in front, behind, and above the patient, giving a greater sense of freedom and ease. This design allows patients to be scanned sitting, bending, lying down, or even standing. It’s also the perfect machine for larger patients as they’re no longer required to be in a smaller, confined space.
The Ideal Experience for Patients with Special Needs
The MRI is an incredibly beneficial imaging technology, and yet patients that suffer from claustrophobia have had difficulty reaping the benefits. Now, the accommodating Advanced Open MRI design eliminates claustrophobic feelings due to its fresh air open experience and allows patients to breathe freely. Now patients can enjoy wide-open space in front, behind, and above during most MRI exams.
This new technology lets patients fully relax during their MRI exam, and in many cases, enjoy their favorite TV show. The Advanced Open MRI is a great option for children. A parent can stand close enough to their child to make eye contact and hold their hand during the entire exam.
The Advanced Open MRI is the perfect solution for weight-bearing imaging. This new technology allows every part of the body to be imaged in the weight-bearing state to capture the full effect of gravity on the body. This is particularly useful for patients suffering from auto or sports injuries as the Advanced Open MRI allows the patient to be positioned where they are experiencing the most pain.
Another exciting feature is the ability to rotate patients. When working with musculoskeletal imaging, it’s helpful to have imagery of certain muscle and tissue positions that cannot be completely captured when lying down. The Advanced Open MRI allows patients to be rotated to scan extension, flexion, rotation, and lateral bending positions.
What to Expect During an Advanced Open MRI Screening
An MRI requires very little preparation and typically lasts anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. Your technologist will have you remove any jewelry, belts, or other metal objects that can interfere with the imagery. Depending on the focus of your MRI, you will either sit, stand, or lie down during the process.
Most MRI technology requires that patients lie on a cushioned table inside the circular MRI machine. The new Advanced Open MRI gives you more freedom and an open-spaced environment which many patients find comforting. During the process, your technologist can see, hear, and speak to you to answer any questions you may have.
At American Health Imaging, we’re proud to offer the Advanced Open MRI in Decatur, GA and San Antonio, TX. This amazing new technology not only gives patients the freedom and open space they want during an MRI exam, but it gives us the ever-evolving technology to capture more immersive images to better serve your health.
Contact us today to set up an appointment or learn more about our brand new Advanced Open MRI.