Diagnostic Division - Why High Field vs. Open MRI

With all the "open" or low field scanners being introduced and advertised in the tri-state area, sometimes it's difficult for a physician to order an MRI and still retain the quality they're accustomed to from "closed", high field MRIs. High field strength scanners with a 1.5 - 3 Tesla (measurement of magnetic force) provide high resolution, easier to read scans.



Open scanners usually have about a .23 Tesla. The Wellington Diagnostic Division of Riverhills Healthcare utilizes a GE High Definition 1.5 Tesla magnet with advanced EXCITE software technology

ADVANTAGES OF HIGH FIELD SCANNERS

-The higher the field strength the more powerful and faster the scanner
-Images can be acquired 1 ½ - 2 times faster than an open machine
-Less patient motion due to shorter times
-More advanced imaging techniques available that are not available on the open scanners
-Capability to image much smaller areas of interest with detail due to a stronger signal
-More precise diagnosis



There has been an increase in open MRI use due to the misconception that closed scanners can be more claustrophobic for the patient. Newer scanners are designed with a substantially shorter bore or "tube" than the older scanners to increase patient comfort and reduce their anxiety. The magnet is flared at the ends and wider than the older scanners reducing the "closed in" feeling. Wellington Diagnostic Center's scanner has been designed with superior ventilation and lighting systems, allowing more air and light to circulate while scanning.

In addition to the physical structure of the scanner reducing the anxiety of the patient, our MRI technologists and support staff are experienced in dealing with patients who may be nervous. Our staff can comfort and relax patients, talk them through the scan and, if needed, sit with the patient and hold their hand. Music can be listened to during a scan for relaxation purposes. Patients should be aware of the differences in quality and time and the potential that an additional scan might be required if an "open" scan is acquired. High field scans are indicated for central nervous system, vascular studies and any study that requires high resolution. Because of the lower quality of images produced by the open scanners, an exam may need to be repeated on a closed or high field scanner to accurately diagnosis the problem. This results in patient inconvenience as well as billing for a repeated scan.