Some Of The Drawbacks Of Choosing An Open MRI

If you need an MRI, then you may learn that there are quite a few options now when it comes to how your imaging tests are completed. These options include choosing the machine that is right for you, and many people opt for an open MRI if they can. And while the imaging is ideal, there are actually some drawbacks to picking the open MRI. Keep reading to learn about a few.

They Are Not Always Available

There are dozens of different types of health insurance with so many different companies out there offering the insurance to consumers. These businesses will often cover the costs of imaging tests at certain facilities, but not others. So you will need to call around to see if the business that accepts your insurance has an open MRI machine.

If it does, then you will need to ask about the schedule of the machine. Some people have some serious fears and anxiety that require the use of the machine. In other words, they have a mental health need. Other individuals are obese and cannot fit into a regular MRI machine, so they have a medical need for the devices. These things can congest the schedule of the machine and make it very difficult for you to have your imaging completed in a timely manner. 

Some imaging facilities will call individuals when appointments are canceled, so ask about this when inquiring about whether or not an open MRI machine is available.

Images May Not Be Possible

Open MRI machines cannot take imagery of all parts of the body. This is due to the shape of the machine and the way that it is open on the sides of the device. If your doctor needs images along the side area of your body or at an angle that the open machine cannot accommodate, then the traditional machine may be necessary.

Also, the images that are created are not of a high quality, and the open MRI is not as strong as the closed variety. This can make it difficult for your physician to make a proper diagnosis.

If you are concerned about these things, then there are ways that you can make your traditional MRI more comfortable. For example, you can wear headphones inside the machine that play calming tunes.

In some cases, you may also be able to take a mild sedative before your MRI. Speak with your physician about this. Typically, an oral medicine like valium can be prescribed so you are at ease. 


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