Open MRI at Mosaic Diagnostics:
Comfort Meets Clarity
Experience Magnetic Resonance Imaging without the confinement of a traditional MRI
scanner. Mosaic Diagnostics proudly offers state-of-the-art Open MRI technology, providing a comfortable, anxiety-reducing alternative for patients who need it most, while still delivering
high-quality diagnostic images.
Understanding Open MRI Technology
An Open MRI machine features a design that is not fully enclosed like traditional tube-shaped scanners. Instead, it typically has a wider opening and more space around the patient. This design uses the same fundamental principles of magnetic resonance to create detailed images but is specifically engineered to alleviate the closed-in feeling that can cause anxiety or discomfort for some individuals.
Why Choose an Open MRI?
Advantages & Benefits of Open MRI
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Reduced Claustrophobia & Anxiety:
The primary benefit is the open design, which significantly helps patients who feel anxious or claustrophobic in confined spaces.
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Accommodates Larger Patients:
The wider bore and open sides can more comfortably accommodate patients with larger body sizes.
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Improved Pediatric Experience:
The primary benefit is the open design, which significantly helps patients who feel anxious or claustrophobic in confined spaces.
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Quieter Operation
While still producing noise, some open systems can be quieter than traditional high-field MRI machines.
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High-Quality Imaging:
Our modern Open MRI systems are equipped with advanced technology capable of producing excellent diagnostic images for many types of examinations, particularly for extremities, spine, and certain neurological applications.
Is Open MRI Right for You?
Open MRI is an excellent option for:
- Patients with moderate to severe claustrophobia.
- Patients who experience anxiety in enclosed spaces.
- Larger individuals who may not fit comfortably in a traditional MRI.
- Some pediatric patients.
- Patients requiring imaging of extremities where positioning might be easier in an open system.
Consultation Note
Your referring physician and our team can help determine if Open MRI is the most appropriate choice for your specific diagnostic needs.
Open MRI Compared to Traditional MRI
While Open MRI offers significant comfort advantages, it’s important to understand the
potential differences. Traditional high-field, closed-bore MRI systems typically have stronger magnets, which can
sometimes produce images with higher resolution or acquire images faster, particularly for complex studies like
advanced neurological or body imaging. However, advancements in Open MRI technology have narrowed this
gap considerably for many common examinations.
Feature
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Design
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Patient Comfort
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Claustrophobia
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Patient Size
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Image Quality
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Scan Time
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Magnetic Field
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Best Suited For
Open MRI
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Open on sides, wider bore
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Higher (less confining)
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Significantly better
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Accommodates larger patients
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High quality for many exams
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May be slightly longer*
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Typically lower-mid field
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Claustrophobic/anxious pts, larger pts, extremities, spine
Traditional (Closed) MRI
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Enclosed tube/tunnel
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Patie Lower (more confining) nt Comfort
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Can be challenging
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Standard bore limitations
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Potentially higher resolution*
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Potentially faster*
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Typically high-field
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Complex neuro/body, when max resolution needed
Note: Varies significantly based on specific machine technology and exam type
Conclusion: The best choice depends on individual patient needs, the specific body part being scanned, and the diagnostic question. Dr. Feldmann and our team ensure the appropriate scanner is used for optimal results
Understanding Open MRI Costs
Insurance Coverage
Most insurance plans cover Open MRI when medically necessary, similar to traditional MRI. We accept a wide range of insurance plans. Please contact us or check our Insurance Page for details. Pre-authorization may be required
What's Included?
Our pricing typically includes the scan itself and the radiologist’s interpretation report sent to your doctor.
Cash Pay / Prompt Pay Options
For patients without insurance or those with high deductibles, Mosaic Diagnostics offers competitive self-pay pricing for Open MRI scans. We believe in transparent pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Open MRI
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