Not every MRI machine looks the same. If you dread tight spaces or need extra room, open MRI might be your best bet. But traditional MRI still leads the pack in certain cases. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right scan for your needs.
What Is a Traditional MRI?
Traditional MRI machines feature a closed-bore design—a narrow tunnel where you lie on a sliding table. High-strength magnets sit close to your body, delivering exceptionally sharp images. This precision makes closed MRI the go-to choice for tiny structures like inner-ear nerves or small joint ligaments. On the downside, the tight space and loud knocking noise can unsettle claustrophobic or anxious patients.
What Is an Open MRI?
Open MRI systems come in two styles: true open design, with magnets above and below leaving your sides open, and wide-bore models with a larger tunnel. These machines prioritize patient comfort, offering more space and less of that “trapped” feeling. Open MRI accommodates larger body types and helps patients with mobility challenges or severe anxiety feel more at ease.
Machine Design and Patient Comfort
Closed MRI feels snug—only a few inches from bore wall to your face. That’s no problem if you’re comfortable lying still in small spaces. With open MRI, you see more of the room and may even have a friend or family member sit beside you. Some centers let you watch movies or listen to music through headphones, making the experience more pleasant.
Image Quality and Scan Time
Closed MRI generally produces the highest resolution images because the magnets are closer and stronger. It’s ideal for complex cases—brain tumors, spinal cord lesions, or tiny ligament tears. Open MRI delivers very good images for many applications—spine, joints, and abdominal scans—but resolution can be slightly lower. Scan time is similar, though certain sequences on open MRI may take a few extra minutes.
Cost and Availability
Closed MRI machines are found in almost every hospital and imaging center, making scheduling easier. Open MRI machines are less common, so you may face longer wait times. Costs are comparable; insurance typically covers both if medically ordered. Facility fees vary, so checking with your provider helps avoid surprises.
Noise Level and Accessibility
Both systems generate noise, but open designs tend to echo less and allow better ear protection. If you have hearing aids or require clear communication during the scan, open MRI can help. Accessibility features like removable tables and wider openings make open MRI more user-friendly for patients with physical limitations.
When to Choose One Over the Other
If you need the highest detail—small joint ligaments or early brain changes—closed MRI is your best option. If you’re claustrophobic, larger in size, or have difficulty staying still in a tight space, open MRI reduces stress. Pediatric patients and those with special needs often do better in open scanners. Always follow your doctor’s advice based on the area being imaged and the level of resolution required.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Closed MRI wins on image clarity and availability. Open MRI excels in patient comfort and accessibility. Both keep you safe—no radiation, just magnets and radio waves.
Conclusion
Choosing between open and traditional MRI comes down to comfort versus maximum resolution. Both serve vital roles in diagnosing health issues. If a spacious, more relaxed scan fits your needs without sacrificing quality for most studies, consider scheduling at Upright MRI of Deerfield, where open and upright MRI options put your comfort first while delivering the clear images your care team relies on.
