There are many choices to pick from when it comes to looking for the right MRI scanner for your business. Different types of MRI scanners have distinct features and characteristics that can affect the final output and patient experience. For that reason, it is vital to know what kind of MRI scanners are available and what each one has to offer. This article will talk about five types of MRI scanners and what you can expect from them.
1. Closed MRI Scanner
As the name implies, a closed MRI scanner is a narrow machine with only a bore diameter of approximately 60 centimeters. Due to this small configuration, the magnetic strength is quite powerful, up to 3T. This means that the images will be amazingly detailed, allowing doctors to pinpoint problems that need to be addressed. Plus, significantly less time is spent in the imaging process, allowing patients to avoid staying too long inside the machine. As a result, the images produced from closed MRI scanners are of great detail. However, due to the closed-nature, they can be troublesome for claustrophobic patients.
2. Open MRI Scanner
Open MRI scanners are open all around. This design gives patients the most space, as the four sides are not closed at all and provide plenty of room to help keep patients calm and relaxed. Unfortunately, there is a big sacrifice to this: image quality.
Due to its open nature, the magnetic strength of a truly-open MRI scanner is diminished significantly, going up to only 1.2T. This means that the images produced from this would not be as detailed as that of other machines, like a closed or a wide-bore MRI scanner.
3. Wire-Bore MRI Scanner
Wide-bore MRI scanners are similar to closed MRI scanners, although with wider openings. This is great to help those with claustrophobia to feel a little more comfortable. However, this feature comes at a cost, as the magnetic strength is at around 1.5T. This means that between truly open MRI scanners and closed MRI scanners, the wide-bore MRI scanner is the middle ground for good image quality and patient experience.
4. Open-Upright MRI Scanner
Credit: Center for Diagnostic Imaging YouTube Channel
This type of scanner is also open, although the design allows the patient to sit upright while being scanned. While this may offer patients the most comfort to remain calm, it is, unfortunately, the worst MRI scanner for image quality. It can only provide a full strength of approximately 1T, which means the images produced will not be as detailed.
Conclusion
Now that you know of the various MRI scanners out there, it’s time to pick and choose the perfect scanner for your needs.
If you are looking for the best option to give you the most detailed images to provide high-quality services, a Tesla MRI might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are worried that your patients, especially those with claustrophobia, will be unhappy with closed MRIs, you can opt for wide-bore machines or even open MRI scanners to balance comfort and quality.
Regardless of which one you need, you will need to list all your requirements and take the time to see which one can satisfy your needs the best.
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