Magnetic Resonance Imaging technology, or MRI, provides medical professionals a powerful, safe, non-surgical way to see what’s causing pain or discomfort in the body. However, some patients may feel some claustrophobia, and may be apprehensive about the test. Fortunately, there’s a type of MRI called “short bore MRI” that can help patients who are uncomfortable with enclosed spaces.
MRIs can be Uncomfortable for Some Patients
Traditional MRI scans use a large, doughnut-shaped magnet with a central opening that’s like a tube. Technicians position the patient on a table, and the table is moved in and out of the machine during the scan. Patients must remain as still as possible during the scan, in order to produce the best images. Unfortunately, for patients who experience claustrophobia, this can be an uncomfortable feeling.
When a patient is anxious or distressed during their MRI scan, they may have difficulty staying still. This can mean the test may take longer, ironically prolonging the discomfort, but it can also mean that the images produced are not as clear or useful as they ideally would be, to help doctors diagnose the source of pain or discomfort.
What is Short Bore MRI?
A short bore MRI is a variation on the traditional MRI. In a short bore MRI scan, only the body part being imaged must remain inside the magnet part of the machine; the rest of the body can be outside of it. This can give some relief to patients because it can lessen the feeling of being trapped in the machine.
American Heath Imaging uses the largest, and the shortest bore MRI available (70 cm wide and 125 cm long), so having your MRI through AHI can be a more comfortable experience than scheduling it with a hospital.
Other Ways to Alleviate Discomfort During MRI Scans
Sometimes, when a doctor knows that a patient is prone to experience feelings of claustrophobia, a sedative may be prescribed ahead of time. If that’s the case, AHI will administer the sedative before your procedure.
Technicians will also work with patients, positioning them in such a way to get the best images for the area being scanned, while being mindful of patients’ comfort levels. At AHI, we take patients’ comfort seriously. Our MRI procedure area is well-lit and we will do everything in our power to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible for the short bore MRI scan.
Schedule Your Short Bore MRI with AHI Today!
To learn more about the MRI services offered by American Health Imaging, visit our FAQ page. Then, plan to visit AHI for your diagnostic scan needs. We’re proud to provide the same high quality scans you would receive in a hospital setting at a much lower cost, and in a comfortable, convenient setting. With locations across Alabama, Georgia, Florida and Texas, we’re right where you need us to be.
Let our trained, professional technicians help you through your MRI. Contact us online or call us at (855) MRI-CHOICE today.