Long Island Orthopedic Surgeon Provides Open MRI Options To Patients To Make Them Comfortable During The Scan

For an individual who is claustrophobic, undergoing a test using a traditional MRI that is like a tube, is a traumatic experience. A Long Island orthopedic surgeon can understand the fear this magnetic resonance testing may cause. For that reason, an open MRI is offered as an option.

This medical imaging machine can examine internal organs, structures and possibly detect early developing tumors as well. This obviates the need for exploratory surgery. Nuclear magnetic resonance can visualize what is causing pain or a troubling medical condition in a non-invasive way.

This enables the doctor to see the contrast between soft tissues. Images of the brain, the heart and muscles, for example can be seen more clearly than in a computed tomography, CT scan or an X-ray. Until recent innovations made the open MRI available, the tube like version was the only way to complete this all-important scan.

In the open version of the MRI medical machine there is no tube. One side is open and both ends are as well. The dome over the bed is high enough that it does not cause a closed-in feeling. The patient lies flat on the bed and does not experience any claustrophobic fear. He or she can relax in comfort during the scan.

Some safety precautions should be noted. The surgically implanted cochlear implants that bring hearing to the deaf would prevent the individual from undergoing an MRI. The same is true for anyone with a cardiac pacemaker. It could potentially lead to death for that individual.

Sports injuries are a major focus of the Long Island orthopedic surgeon. Providing the option of an open MRI for the players makes the evaluation of their broken bones and torn ligaments more comfortable. It can be helpful in planning a surgery. No radiation is used. While the scan is going on, a member of the patients family can stand next to the open MRI and make them feel at ease. It is one more way to treat those who are medically distressed feel at ease.