Open MRI – Making All the Difference

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Magnetic resonance imaging, most frequently known as MRI, is the most common diagnostic test in pain management. Offering physicians the most in-depth look at the body without cutting it open, MRI scans can help diagnose a variety of problems, from torn ligaments to tumors.

MRI scans are not only able to show the tendons, ligaments, muscles, fat tissue and bones, but show them extremely accurately, depicted in great detail. For pain management, this level of detail is often ideal and preferred over X-Ray or CT Scan, as these diagnostic tests are not capable of displaying the same level of detail. Additionally, disc bulges are not as accurately depicted on any other diagnostic test, making the MRI preferable for identifying that particular condition.

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MRI scans can be performed in either a traditional closed machine or in an open machine. For those who experience claustrophobia or tend to become anxious when in tight spaces, a traditional MRI machine can be intimidating. The machine is tight and confined, and is basically a long tube that the patient is contained in. Even those who do not generally experience claustrophobic tendencies can begin to feel distressed in a traditional machine. Open MRI machines are far less constricting, as they are open on the sides, and the patient’s entire body is not enclosed by the machine.
At Arizona Pain Specialists, only the open MRI is offered, and many patients find this to be the lower stress option. While some physicians feel that the images from an open MRI are not as good as the ones from a traditional MRI, the images are comparable when produced by an experienced technician.

“Patients overwhelmingly prefer the open MRI to the traditional machine,” Arizona Pain Specialists MRI Technologist Kristen Miller says. “They consistently tell me they feel much more comfortable and at ease in our open machine. I’m happy we can offer that to our patients – it makes their experience just that much better.”

Arizona Pain Specialists also prides themselves on making the entire patient experience easy from start to finish. Offering same day appointments and flexible office hours from 7:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., we are able to accommodate nearly any patient for any scan done in our office. “We can perform MRIs on any body part,” Miller says. “You don’t necessarily have to be a patient from here, you just have to have an MRI order. We can always get you in for an appointment the same day, and with our flexible hours, we can perform your scan before or after work or on your lunch hour.”

Special consideration patients are also welcomed, such as those on oxygen. If a patient is still nervous about the experience, oral medication can be made available upon request. However, many patients who have had traditional MRI scans performed will notice that the open machine is quieter and much roomier. The MRI room at Arizona Pain Specialists was designed with patient comfort in mind as well; there are windows that let in natural light, soft music to listen to and blankets to ward off any possible chill. Every accommodation will be made to ensure that every patient has the most comfortable experience possible.