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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans can obtain an image of internal organs and tissues to identify anomalies and potential tumors. The scans are non-invasive, using magnetic fields and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of the body1.
Traditional MRIs require individuals to lie on a platform that is slid into the large, tube-shaped MRI scanner. The opening (bore) of the scanner typically has a 60cm diameter, making the machines narrow and enclosed (although open at both ends)2. This can cause concern for those with claustrophobia. In addition, those who are larger than average may worry about the dimensions of the cylinder and whether they will fit.
In this blog, we will compare traditional, open, and stand-up MRIs, outlining their benefits and drawbacks, and guiding you to the right option.
What Is an Open MRI?
An open MRI is a type of MRI scanner with an open design, meaning that patients are not enclosed. These machines are C-shaped, maintaining an opening on at least 2 sides, and occasionally 3 sides3. The open configuration provides a less confining experience, as the patient is not fully enclosed, and so accommodating people with larger body types or claustrophobia. Open MRI scanners operate at a lower magnetic field strength than traditional scanners – 0.2-1.2T compared to 1.5-3T4.
Open MRI Benefits
Open MRIs offer specific benefits over conventional MRIs.
- Accommodation of most body types – open MRIs are open on at least 2 sides at all times, allowing for sufficient space for larger or obese people to get scans that are essential for their health.
- Enhanced patient comfort – not only are open MRIs more comfortable for those with larger body types, they also reduce the risk of anxiety or claustrophobia5. The open nature can also make it easier for elderly patients and those with chronic pain, as there are not the same restrictions on how they must be positioned.
- Lower need for sedation – with traditional MRI scanners, sedation may be necessary for those with severe anxiety, pediatric patients, or neurodiverse individuals6. The use of open MRI also reduces the need for this.
- More flexible positioning – some conditions require specific positioning to be imaged, such as joint pain. Open MRIs have the space available for specific positioning, or it may be possible to tilt them to allow upright scans7.
- Quieter experience – traditional MRIs are notoriously loud, requiring earplugs to protect the ears while various loud noises occur. Open MRI scanners are quieter due to the lack of enclosed tunnel or walls.
What Is a Stand-Up MRI?
A stand-up MRI is a form of open MRI where patients can be scanned in a wide variety of positions, including standing, sitting, and leaning, as opposed to exclusively lying flat as in traditional MRI scanners8. Lying flat can cause problems for people with back pain, vertigo, spinal injury, or lack of mobility. Therefore, stand-up MRIs can provide a higher level of comfort for those with these issues. In addition, patients are not enclosed and have their head free to see the scanning room and communicate with the technicians, reducing anxiety levels and feelings of claustrophobia8.
Stand-up MRIs enable weight-bearing imaging of the spine or joints, where these areas can be imaged under stress, potentially uncovering issues that are not visible when lying down9. The flexibility of positioning also allows patients to replicate the circumstances under which they experience symptoms, enabling dynamic imaging under real-world positioning.
Key Differences: Open MRI vs. Stand-Up MRI
We have summarized the key differences between open and stand-up MRIs below:
Disadvantages of Open and Stand-Up MRIs
Open and stand-up MRIs offer many advantages, in particular in terms of comfort and accessibility. However, they also have limitations:
- Lower image resolution – the lower magnetic field strength used in open and stand-up MRIs, compared to traditional MRIs, reduces the resolution of the images10. However, improvements in Open and stand-up MRI technologies in recent years have led to image quality on par with standard MRIs despite a weaker magnetic field.
- Increased time – images take longer to acquire when using a weaker magnetic field10.
- Unable to use for certain diagnostics – lacks the resolution for certain applications, such as detailed brain scans. It may not be possible to carry out 360° scans as the magnets due not surround the patient, which may limit the ability to take images from all angles10.
- Limited availability – although availability is increasing, not all centers in the US provide stand-up or open MRIs.
- Insurance cover – medical insurers may not cover these types of scans unless deemed medically necessary.
Choosing the Right MRI for You
You may be given the opportunity to choose or have a say in the type of MRI scan that you undergo.
Open MRIs are beneficial if you are claustrophobic or have a larger body type. They can provide general imaging of the brain, organs, and joints, but are not appropriate for weight-bearing scans. Open MRIs also provide a quieter and more comfortable experience.
Stand-up MRIs are also beneficial for those with claustrophobia as their head is free and they can look around the scanning room. These scans are most appropriate when imaging needs to be carried out under weight-bearing conditions or if specific positional scanning is required to replicate real-world conditions.
Traditional MRIs provide the highest image quality and are beneficial for full-body scans. If patients do not experience claustrophobia or anxiety in confined spaces, they will provide detailed images from all angles. Traditional scans also provide a faster scan experience due to the use of stronger magnetic fields. The Ezra full body scan takes only 60 minutes. Ezra often also use wide-bore MRI scanners, providing full 360° imaging in a slightly larger space.
Technological Advances in MRI Imaging
AI to Improve Image Analysis
Advances in MRI technology have improved the imaging power of open and stand-up MRIs. One particularly important innovation has been the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI). AI can be used to enhance images, improving their clarity and diagnostic accuracy11. AI can also be used to analyze the images, potentially identifying patterns that the human eye may miss and reducing the risk of false positives and negatives12,13.
Helium-Free Cooling Systems
Traditional MRIs use vast amounts of helium to cool their magnets – around 2000 litres is needed, and needs to be regularly replenished14. Global shortages of helium have proven a big problem in the MRI field, demonstrating the importance of developing helium-free or low-helium cooling systems14. MRIs using these cooling systems are increasingly being adopted to avoid helium scarcity and cost issues. They also have a lower physical and infrastructural footprint, increasing accessibility in areas where space and support are limited15.
Ambient Experience Integrations
People often experience anxiety when undergoing an MRI scan. To help reduce anxiety, many providers are introducing ambient experience integration, including lighting and video projections. These provide a personalized atmosphere and a positive distraction to the scanning process16.
Ezra’s Approach: MRI Without the Discomfort
Ezra has recently started to offer Open MRIs at specific locations. They use the Velocity, the most powerful Open MRI system, delivering 1.2T magnetic field strength, high signal-to-noise ratio, fast scans, and motion compensation.
Ezra also offers wide-bore MRIs at the majority of their locations. These are enclosed scanners but have a wider opening, providing more room, comfort, and a reduced risk of anxiety while still providing the highest-quality images.
Summary
Traditional MRIs can be uncomfortable for claustrophobic individuals or those with larger body types. Open and stand-up MRIs offer comfort and flexibility, and new technologies (such as the use of AI) are improving their imaging resolutions, despite the use of weaker magnetic fields. Unfortunately, open MRIs may be harder to find as they are not as common around the US as traditional scanners.
Ezra offers wide-bore scans, with a wider opening to lower accessibility and comfort issues. We have also recently introduced open MRIs at a limited number of locations.
Ezra scans are fast, pain-free, and help detect potential cancer signs in 13 organs and 500+ conditions. Book your Ezra full-body scan today and stay ahead of the curve.
FAQs
Q: How does an open MRI work?
A: Open MRIs work the same way as traditional MRIs, using a magnetic field and radio waves to produce an image of the body. However, they have key design differences.
Q: What does an open MRI look like?
A: Open MRIs have a more spacious design, often in a C-shape, with at least 2 sides of the scanner open.
Q: Is open MRI less claustrophobic?
A: Yes, open MRIs maintain an opening on 2-3 sides of the scanner instead of being fully enclosed, decreasing the risk of claustrophobia.
Q: Which is better, open MRI or closed?
A: Closed MRIs give higher image quality, however, open MRIs can be better suited for those with claustrophobia.
Q: How close to your face is an open MRI?
A: In an open MRI, the distance between your face and the machine is much greater than for traditional MRIs – up to 30 cm of clearance.
Q: Can you sit up in an open MRI?
A: Yes, in some open MRIs it is possible to have an MRI taken in a sitting position.
Q: How long does an open MRI take?
A: Due to weaker magnetic fields, these scans may take slightly longer – up to 60 minutes.
Q: Can you be sedated for an open MRI?
A: You can be sedated for an open MRI if necessary, however, the open structure of the machine and ambient experience integration may help to ease anxiety without needing sedatives.
Q: How much does an open MRI cost?
A: Open MRIs may cost slightly more than regular MRIs due to the need for specialized equipment and lower availability.
Q: Does Medicare pay for an open MRI?
A: Medicare should cover open MRIs, provided that the scan is considered medically necessary to diagnose a medical condition.
