If you’ve been injured or have something wrong with a joint or bone, sometimes a traditional x-ray doesn’t allow doctors to see what is wrong. They will usually schedule an MRI so better images can be taken to make a diagnosis. With improvements in MRI technology, there are four different types of MRIs in use:
- Traditional
- Wide Bore
- High Field
- Open Upright
MRI Differences
While the principles of how the machines work are the same, the main differences are the width or diameter of the opening. The traditional MRI is the narrowest with the opening measuring 23.5” in diameter. A wide bore MRI has a diameter of 27.5”, which is more ideal for someone with a larger frame or who is obese.
The MRI high field in Riverhead, NY not only has a wider opening of 36”, but it measures 18” vertically as well. Instead of a round shape, the opening of this machine is rectangular, which allows the patient to see the room if he or she turns his or her head. This is ideal for people with claustrophobia or who feel confined in traditional MRIs.
An Upright Option
The traditional, wide bore, and MRI high field all require the patient to lie down so that the platform he or she is on slides into the machine. However, the open upright MRI allows a patient to sit in chair in an open environment while the MRI takes images. The open upright models have the lowest magnet strength but they still provide clear images.
The MRI high field, which is available at North Fork Radiology locations, usually has a higher magnet strength and it can take about 45 minutes to complete an exam with one. If you feel confined when having an MRI, discuss the options with your doctor and ask about using a MRI high field for your images.