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OPEN BORE MRI -MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING
Procedure
Description: An open MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) system differs from a traditional MRI by the size of the opening, or bore, in which the patient lies within a large cylindrical magnet. This magnetic field, along with radio waves and a computer, create a detailed image of the patient's organs, tissues and bones that aid physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In a traditional MRI, the bore is only slightly larger than the patient, creating a restrictive and to some, uncomfortable environment. The open MRI technology was designed to accommodate those obese or claustrophobic patients who could not be served by a traditional MRI.
Although the open MRI creates a more comfortable exam for those patients, the quality of the image scan was jeopardized by the size of the bore and its resulting weak magnetic field. The field strength of the magnet is measured in units of Tesla (T), with previous open MRI magnets at low Tesla strengths of 0.3 to 0.5T. These lower strengths produced images that were of poor quality, oftentimes frustrating both the physician and the patient.
Recent Siemens technology has combined the comfort of an open MRI with a powerful 1.5T magnet to create the Open Bore MAGNETOM Espree with Total Imaging Matrix (TIM)T Technology. The first of its kind, the Open Bore Espree offers an amazing 2.3 feet diameter bore, eliminating the confinement of traditional MRI designs. The Espree also features the shortest magnet, which at only 4 feet long allows for more than 60 percent of exams to be completed with the patient's head outside the bore. The new feet-first design enables patients to see the exam room and communicate with medical staff at all times. Bodily contact is also possible, allowing children to hold the hand of an accompanying parent for comfort and assurance. Where a head-first exam becomes necessary, patients can enjoy generous elbow and headroom - nearly one foot of space between a patient's face and the magnet.
The Espree provides up to four times more signal-to-noise ratio over traditional open MRI designs, which is desirable in imaging larger patients. In addition, the Espree can perform advanced exams in less time - an average exam time of only 40 minutes - because it combines strong gradient performance with Siemens' TIMT technology. TimT is the first whole body surface coil design that enables the highest resolution images in a shorter acquisition time. TimT coils are very light, making them both easy to position and tolerate when scanning larger patients.
The 1.5T Espree can accommodate patients up to 550 lbs., compared to 300 lbs. with closed high field MRI designs. The table adjusts down to a comfortable 18 inches, making it ideal for obese and elderly patients. Starting and finishing an exam is as easy as lying down and getting up from a sofa.
Raleigh Radiology's Cedarhurst facility is the first in the triangle to offer the 1.5T Open Bore Espree MRI. For more information, contact Raleigh Radiology Cedarhurst directly at 919-877-5400.
Patient
Preparation: You may be asked to wear a gown during the exam or you may be allowed to wear your own clothing if it is loose-fitting and has no metal fasteners. You will be asked to empty your pockets and remove eyeglasses, hearing aids, hairpins, removable dental work, jewelry, watches or any other metallic objects.
Guidelines about eating and drinking before an MRI vary depending on the type of exam. Unless you are told otherwise, you may follow your regular daily routine and take medications as usual. Some MRI examinations may require the patient to receive an injection of contrast into the bloodstream.
The Open Bore MRI at Raleigh Radiology Cedarhurst eliminates the need for sedation in claustrophobic patients; however, children who have trouble remaining still may need a sedative for optimal examination. Raleigh Radiology Cedarhurst does not provide IV sedation on-site. Sedation exams can be accommodated at Raleigh Radiology at Rex Hospital.
Frequently
Asked Questions:
Q:
Where can this procedure be performed?
Raleigh Radiology Cedarhurst is the first and only location in the Triangle to offer the Espree technology. Obese and elderly patients no longer need to travel long distances for an open MRI scan; Cedarhurst now provides the same access to innovative imaging technology to all patients in the Triangle.
Conventional 1.5T high field MRI services are offered at Raleigh Radiology Blue Ridge and Raleigh Radiology at Rex Hospital, and soon MRI will be offered in Cary, Wake Forest, and Clayton.
Q:
Can I request the Open Bore MRI over a traditional MRI if I am not obese or claustrophobic?
Absolutely. The Siemen's 1.5T Open Bore MRI at our Cedarhurst facility provides a more comfortable patient experience for larger patients, claustrophobics, or anyone who just wants more space. With the Siemen's Espree, one size fits all.
With the increased access of the Open Bore at Cedarhurst, our conventional 1.5T MRI service at multiple locations and fellowship trained radiologists reading most MRI cases, Raleigh Radiology has got you covered for MRI services.
Q:
Will my insurance cover the new Open bore MRI technology?
Insurance coverage for the 1.5T Open bore MRI is no different than coverage for a traditional MRI. Raleigh Radiology Cedarhurst is considered in network with most major insurance companies. Most insurance plans do require pre-authorizations for MRI exams. Patients are advised to check directly with their insurance company for their MRI benefit. Patient benefits may vary for pre-authorization, deductible, or co-pay requirements.
Q:
What is the difference between the open MRI's of the past and the new Open Bore Espree MRI?
While an open MRI provided a comfortable patient experience and accommodated patients weighing up to 500 lbs., a lower strength magnet (0.3 -0.5 tesla) provided poor image quality and little diagnostic significance. The design of the new Open Bore Espree is similar to that of a CT scanner, allowing patients a comfortable, roomy experience. The strong tesla strength (at 1.5T) and features such as TIMT (Total Imaging Matrix technology), allow the magnet to produce exceptional, high resolution images.
Q:
What are the risks of an MRI?
There are no known harmful effects created by the magnetic field or the radio waves. The exam is dangerous to patients with certain implanted devices such as pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants and aneurysm clips. An MRI would not be performed on these patients. If contrast examination is necessary, then there is a very small risk of allergic reaction to the injected contrast dye
An open MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) system differs from a traditional MRI by the size of the opening, or bore, in which the patient lies within a large cylindrical magnet. This magnetic field, along with radio waves and a computer, create a detailed image of the patient's organs, tissues and bones that aid physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In a traditional MRI, the bore is only slightly larger than the patient, creating a restrictive and to some, uncomfortable environment. The open MRI technology was designed to accommodate those obese or claustrophobic patients who could not be served by a traditional MRI.
The Espree provides up to four times more signal-to-noise ratio over traditional open MRI designs, which is desirable in imaging larger patients. In addition, the Espree can perform advanced exams in less time - an average exam time of only 40 minutes - because it combines strong gradient performance with Siemens' TIMT technology. TimT is the first whole body surface coil design that enables the highest resolution images in a shorter acquisition time. TimT coils are very light, making them both easy to position and tolerate when scanning larger patients.
You may be asked to wear a gown during the exam or you may be allowed to wear your own clothing if it is loose-fitting and has no metal fasteners. You will be asked to empty your pockets and remove eyeglasses, hearing aids, hairpins, removable dental work, jewelry, watches or any other metallic objects.