Not All Open MRI Machines Are the Same

Anyone who has ever had an MRI knows that being moved into a small tunnel for long periods of time is not the most pleasant experience. So when Open MRI's became available, many patients began requesting the new machines. Imaging centers even started advertising the fact that they had Open machines.

For the large and very claustrophobic patient, the Open machine filled a valuable place. Without it, these patients could not be scanned and were often subjected to more invasive diagnostic procedures.

However, there was a price for the openness of the machine. Though not widely publicized, quality differences were significant. First, Open MRI's take about twice as long as traditional units to complete the same scans. In fact, acquisition times are so slow certain procedures are not even possible.

Second, there has always been a significant clarity difference between images acquired in traditional MR scanners and those of open machines. The magnet used in open machines has a very low field strength compared to that of tunnel scanners. The open produces a fuzzier or less clear image. The medical community accepted these short comings because the Open Scanner filled an important gap for the large and claustrophobic patient.

Finally, the days of sacrificing image quality for open comfort are over. A new machine introduced by Hitachi is the first Open system on the market to yield comparable image quality to traditional high field machines. The Hitachi Altaire™ High Field Performance Open is a dramatic advance in Open MRI technology. It's the machine we've been waiting for:
  •  Twice as fast as any other open system in Portland today
•  Comparable image quality to traditional high field machines
•  Capable of MRA and diffusion imaging impossible in other open models
•  The largest gantry opening available today
•  Open on all four sides for maximum comfort

Open MR technology has truly come of age and EPIC Imaging is proud to be the first to bring this important breakthrough to Oregon. EPIC Imaging has acquired two Altaire™ units, one for our East side location and one for our West side facility.

If your doctor feels your MRI should be conducted using an Open scanner, remember not all Open machines are the same. Ask your doctor to schedule your exam on a Hitachi Altaire™.

For more information on MRI's click on technology. If you already have an MRI scheduled, click here for exam preparations.