What Is Upright MRI Imaging?
The revolutionary design of Upright MRI allows patients to simply walk in, sit down, and watch TV during the scan. The Upright MRI allows all parts of the body, particularly the spine and joints, to be imaged in a weight-bearing state. Open Magnetic Resonance Imaging (Open MRI) is one of the most accurate methods of diagnostic imaging available today. Open MRI enables your physician to view the human body without the use of x-rays or invasive procedures and obtain precise diagnostic information. MRI allows doctors to see very detailed images of the inside of your body. MRI takes pictures of soft tissue, such as tendons, blood vessels, and the brain. An MRA scan gives a view of specific blood vessels (arteries and veins). MRA may be included with an MRI exam.
Open MRI utilizes a strong magnetic field and radio frequency waves to construct a computer image.
For some MRI procedures, contrast media (commonly referred to as “dye”) is sometimes given intravenously during certain scans to provide the physicians with additional information.
An Open MRI differs from a traditional MRI in that it:
- Provides a more relaxed, less confining environment than traditional MRI
- Lower noise levels. Open MRI systems produce less knocking noise compared to traditional MRI systems.
You may not be able to have a MRI if you have one of the following:
• Cardiac pacemaker
• Cerebral aneurysm clip
• Metallic implants
• Cochlear implants
• Metal fragments in your eye or other parts of your body
• Prosthetic implants
• Women who are pregnant
Please be sure your physician and the MRI staff are aware of any of these conditions. If you have any questions, be sure to ask.
How We Do It
Brain and head MRA are done in this position. Patient is seated in a chair, facing out, watching television.
Cervical Spine and MRA neck are done in this position. Patient is seated in a chair, facing out, watching television.
Knee is weight bearing with the patient at a 45° angle. Pelvis, hips and other lower extremities are also done in this position.
Lumbar Spine for large patients up to 500 lbs. or 60″ waist line are done in this position.