Closed MRI vs. Open MRI: What Type of MRI Is Right for Me?

MRI, short for magnetic resonance imaging, is an imaging technique that combines a strong magnetic field with radio waves to produce images of the human body. Because our bodies are made up of approximately 70% water, the electrons will shift in alignment when a magnetic field is produced. During imaging, radio waves are introduced into the MRI machine that scatters the electrons, thereby them their routine polarity. They then release energy that is recorded by gradient coils.

MRI machines are sophisticated diagnostic devices that come in varieties and have a wide range of applications. These uses generally depend on the strength of each machine, measured in Teslas (T). Typically, the higher the field strength, the higher the MRI machine cost. In addition, the clinical use of the scanner will drive your decision to consider an open versus closed MRI machine.

Our discussion today will revolve around comparing open versus closed bore MRI machines to determine which type of MRI matches your needs. You thereafter will be able to find an MRI machine for sale that is best suited for you and your medical facility.

Closed Bore MRI Machines

Closed bore MRI machines have been around the longest and are the traditional MRI machines most people are familiar with. They utilize a capsule-like design with a strong magnetic field where the patient lies inside a circle. The machine itself is essentially one big magnet that uses radio waves that send signals into the magnetic field where the patient is lying. The output signal is converted into images by a computer. Closed bore MRI machines have field strengths of 1.5T and 3.0T scanners with generally 60cm bore sizes, but newer models have been manufactured with 70cm bore sizes.

Closed MRI machines produce higher quality images than their open counterparts, with reduced exam acquisition times. Some patients have claustrophobia, limiting the ability to complete the exam without taking medications to calm their anxiety. The duration inside the machine is long and strenuous: patients must lie flat and motionless inside the closed bore for over 45 minutes during an MRI procedure. When completely surrounded and in such a tight space, many people begin to feel claustrophobic, even if they had never shown such tendencies before. In some cases, the patient may not even be able to fit into the small opening. MRI machines also make loud noises because the RF signal is activated, creating a potential added for patients already experiencing anxiety.

Open Bore MRI Machines

Instead of using an enclosed capsule, open bore MRI machines have a magnet on the top and bottom, earning them the nickname of "clam shell" scanners. Because of the ‘open’ design, a drawback for these machines is that magnet sizes range from 3.0T to 1.5T. Compared to closed bore machines, image qualities are reduced and scan times are extended. Open bore machines are best used on patients that are claustrophobic or cannot fit into closed bore systems. Exam times need to be extended on an open MRI machine to match the quality of their closed bore counterparts.

On a positive note, the open design decreases the risk of claustrophobia and panic attacks, allowing patients of all shapes and sizes to be scanned. This also leads to an open-room setting in which patients can see and interact with their surroundings during a procedure.

Final Thoughts

There is a lot to consider when planning to buy a new MRI machine. Apart from the MRI machine price, choosing between a closed bore or open bore machine needs to be considered. Though image quality is typically better with closed bore scanners, they lack the comfort provided by open bore machines, causing difficulties with obese patients or those who suffer from claustrophobia.

Both types of MRI machines come with their own benefits and drawbacks. Depending on what your facility specializes in or requires, it may be best for you to choose one over the other. For instance, if you typically go through many scans on a given day, a closed bore MRI machine would be best because it leads to faster results. On the other hand, if your patients are children, an open bore scanner would be better suited because they lead to less stress or anxiety. If you perform exams on patients, a higher field open scanner may be a better choice.

Whatever you need, you can either buy a Meridian SELECT certified refurbished machine or lease a new MRI machine from organizations like Meridian Leasing.

My role as the Vice President of Healthcare at Meridian Leasing is to partner with our top healthcare clients to build a medical equipment strategy to meet the organization financial needs.