Download Open versus closed MRI: A radiographic point of view By Ahmad

Open versus closed MRI: A radiographic point of view
By
Ahmad Elghamdy
Supervision/ Dr Naglaa Mostafa Elsayed
2008-2009
Abstract
Introduction:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an exciting advancement in the area of medical
diagnosis used primarily to produce high quality images of the normal anatomy as
well as various pathologies of the human body.
There are two types of MRI; Close and open MRI machines. Claustrophobic People
may need sedatives to help them relax while having closed MRI scan, or they can do
it in open machine. An open MRI machine is also easier to be used for patients who
are very overweight or obese.
Aim of study:
The aim of our study is to determine the differences between open and close
MRI machines among technicians; which is more preferable? and What are the
problems and solution in dealing with each machine?.
Materials and Methods:
This research is a cross sectional study which was done through a
questionnaire which was distributed among 65 participants. Our data was analyzed
using SPSS program.
Results:
In our study, 78.5% of technicians worked in open MRI machine while 21.5%
had never worked in open MRI before mostly because it was not available in their
working areas.
Most of our participants agreed that the advantages of open MRI include; easier
software handling, better patient's position ,and the patient is more comfortable in
the open machine than in the closed one
Regarding the disadvantages of open MRI machines, most technicians mentioned
that it has more artifacts, more technical problems, and it takes longer time than
closed MRI for the same examination.
Most technicians also mentioned that close MRI machine gives better image quality,
so, the physicians always prefer close MRI examinations.
Conclusion & recommendations:
No doubt that MRI is a great advantage to any radiological department. Although the
main problem of closed MRI machines is the claustrophobia which may affect many
patients and prevent them from completing the study, however it is still preferred by
the physician for its better image quality. Now, recent open MRI machines have
higher Tesla with consequent better image quality are available- but much more
expensive-. We recommend different procedures that can be done for the patients
to avoid claustrophobia when using closed MRI e.g. brochures, video shows …etc. to
be provided for the patients before doing MRI studies.