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MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) provides maximum comfort while generating high-quality images. Magnetic fields and radio waves are used to visualize internal organs and soft tissue without the use of X-Rays.
MRIs are painless and have no known side effects. Midwest Open Imaging's open scanner design reduces anxiety and is ideal for patients who claustrophobic, elderly, physically challenged, or who have a large or athletic build. In addition, patients can have a friend or family member in the scan room during their entire exam.
What is MRI? Click on the video (right) to see and hear Midwest Open Imaging's Open MRI in action! |
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Open vs. Closed MRI The patient experience |
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OPEN MRI
-Preferred by larger or athletically-built patients
-500 lb weight limit; 17" gantry opening
-Reduces anxiety & claustrophobia
-Quieter than Closed MRI |
CLOSED MRI
-Patients confined in a cramped tunnel
-350 lb weight limit; limited gantry opening
-Increases anxiety & claustrophobia
-Patients complain of loud noise |
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Heads or Toes? How will you be positioned in the scanner? |
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The biggest difference between Closed MRI and Open MRI is how you are positioned in the scanner. In a Closed MRI, you are surrounded by a tube, no matter WHAT the exam. Midwest Open Imaging's open scanner provides a more comfortable, patient-friendly experience. During MANY exams, you can actually turn your head to look outside of the scanner. And in all cases, you can have someone in the scan room during your exam. Use the chart below to determine positioning for your Open MRI.
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Type of Open MRI |
Orientation |
Head under scanner? |
Can you turn head? |
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Brain, MRA, C- & T-Spine |
Head First |
Yes |
No |
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L-Spine |
Feet First |
*Maybe |
Yes |
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Upper Extremity |
Head First |
Yes |
Yes |
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Lower Extremity |
Feet First |
No |
Yes |
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Hip or Pelvis |
Feet First |
*Maybe |
Yes |
*Patients shorter than 6"0" may have their head under the scanner. |
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Preparing for your MRI Three tips make scanning a snap |
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Preparing for your MRI is as easy as one, two, three! Unless otherwise directed, you can eat a normal diet and take medications as prescribed. In addition, the following tips with make your trip to Midwest Open Imaging the best possible experience:
1.) WEAR COMFORTABLE CLOTHING Most MRIs take 45-60 minutes. We recommend you dress casually (sweatpants & sweatshirt are perfect). Patients who wear clothing with metal zippers or snaps may need to change into hospital scrubs.
2.) REMOVE ALL METAL ITEMS Because of the MRI's magnetic field, you will be asked to leave certain items in a locker outside of the scan room. These include: Coins, Credit Cards, Wallets, Jewelry, Watches, Cell Phones, Keys, Glasses, and Hearing Aids.
3.) SIT BACK AND RELAX We get the best images when you are able to relax and remain still. Our technologists are great at coaching anxious patients through their exams-- let them know ahead of time if you're feeling nervous. For added peace of mind, feel free to bring someone along to sit in the scan room with you during the exam. If you're extremely claustrophobic or in pain, please ask your doctor about oral sedation before your appointment.
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MRI of Knee |
MRI of Lumbar Spine |
MRI of Brain | |
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Contraindications for MRI Your pre-scan safety check |
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MRI is one of the safest radiological exams available. There are, however, several contraindicators that Midwest Open Imaging's technologists will review with you before entering the strong magnetic field of the scan room. You'll be asked whether you have had surgery where certain types of metal may have been used. In addition, you may not be a candidate for MRI if you have any of the following:
Pacemaker, Neuro-stimulator (Tens-unit), Metal Implants, Intrauterine Device (IUD), Aneurysm Clips, Surgical staples, Implanted drug infusion device, Metal in your eye, Shrapnel or bullet wounds, certain permanent eyeliner.
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What to expect during your MRI Comfortable. High Tech. |
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Midwest Open Imaging's technologists are trained to make your MRI as comfortable as possible. One of our techs will be able to hear and watch you at all times. You can choose to have a friend or family member with you in the scan room. You'll need to breathe normally and remain as still as possible. Most MRIs take 45-60 minutes. You'll hear a knocking sound, which represents changes in the magnetic field (watch our YouTube video at the top of this page).
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