For people with claustrophobia, going through many routine things in life can be a challenge. This is certainly the case if they need any type of medical imaging, and prior to open MRI, claustrophobia was a very big concern.
Individuals with claustrophobia, or an anxiety disorder that is triggered by being closed-in or with no perceived escape method, naturally have difficulties with a traditional MRI. This is because the traditional MRI machines (magnetic resonance imaging) look very much like a large tube, and they are very restrictive and enclosed once the patient is inside.
Traditional MRI Basics
With a traditional MRI, the patient is placed on a table that slides into the MRI machine. There is nothing to look at or see but the inside of the tube, and the technician is outside of the room but will talk to the patient via a microphone system. Often there is only a few inches on either side of the patient, including between the head and the top of the tube.
While in the MRI, the patient is instructed not to move that further causes anxiety in those with claustrophobia. The noise produced by the machine, which can be described as a humming, repetitive tapping or even a thumping noise can add to the anxiety, even for those without claustrophobia. Listening to music is a good option to give the patient something to enjoy, and many of the top imaging centers now offer patients this option during the scan, which can last up to an hour depending on the specific test.
Open MRI
With the new design of open MRI, claustrophobia triggers can be avoided, making it a possibility for people that may have previously not been able to undergo the procedure.
In open MRI, there are several options to consider that make the process much less anxiety-provoking even for those with concerns about being in confined spaces. This includes the option to be in a much larger “tube” which doesn’t have the same restrictive feeling.
New advances in the technology in creating a contained magnetic field around the patient are a true lifesaver. With these types of machines, the open MRI for those with claustrophobia can be done with the patient sitting or even standing and having the ability to see around them and not feel boxed in or restricted in their ability to be comfortable in their surroundings.
These systems are also ideal for specific types of imaging requirements. Since the patient can be in many different positions, including standing, sitting or on a traditional type of table, more specific imaging is available to provide quality diagnostic results.
