Expert MRI Blog

Understanding MRIs: The 3 Different Machines & Their Uses

If you have recently been referred for an MRI, chances are your referring provider is needing to get a detailed image or scan of soft tissues, such as ligaments, cartilage, or muscles. However, did you know that there are many different types of MRI machines, all with different uses and diagnostic strengths? Understanding MRIs can be beneficial to you and when scheduling your appointment. At ExpertMRI we offer three different types of MRI machines; Front Open MRI, 1.5T High-Field Strength MRI, and 3T High-Field Strength MRI.

What is an MRI?

MRI or magnetic resonance imaging is a diagnostic tool used by radiologists to create clear pictures of the inside of your body. MRIs generate images that help doctors to diagnose injuries or other abnormalities within the body.

How does an MRI work?

An MRI scan works by using powerful magnets and a computer to create detailed images of internal body structures. Since your body is made up of over 80% water, those components of your body can be magnetic. Once put in a magnetic field, the water atoms of your body align and the polarity of your body is disrupted. In short, MRIs measure the amount of fluid that is in your body, which the computer uses to create a black-and-white image. Due to the amount of detail that MRIs can show, our experts can see even the smallest of abnormalities.

How long does an MRI take?

MRIs in a traditional, closed-bore machine can last between 15-90 minutes depending on the type of scanner used, and the type of test your doctor orders.

What is a Front-Open MRI?

A Front-Open MRI, unlike a traditional MRI, allows you to lay on a bed that is more open, and not within a tube. Front-open MRIs are great alternatives for those who suffer from claustrophobia as they are not as enclosed. However, these types of MRIs also have different diagnostic uses than traditional MRI machines.

What are Front-Open MRIs used for?

Front-open MRIs are best used for patients who need to have a certain position to get a scan. The most common uses for these types of MRIs are to detect things like:

Head or brain damage
Heart issues or defects
Chest exams
Spinal exams, including scoliosis testing
Abdominal exams
Pelvic exams
Issues with the joints

There are many different uses for front-open MRIs, and often these machines provide more comfort than the alternative machines.

Benefits of Front-Open MRIs

There are many great benefits to front-open MRIs, especially when it comes to younger patients, patients with mobility issues, and patients that suffer from MRI anxiety and claustrophobia. Front-open MRIs alleviate anxiety in patients with claustrophobia due to the machine being more open than traditional closed-bore MRI machines.

These machines are also less noisy than their counterparts, easing the stress of anxious patients. And, unlike other machines, younger kids can be accompanied by a parent, and patients with mobility issues are more comfortable in front-open MRI machines as they do not have to lie flat on their backs.

1.5T High-Field Strength MRI

Often referred to as traditional MRI, today’s High-Field Strength MRIs offer a shorter bore that is slightly more open than earlier MRI equipment. The higher-strength magnet enables more detailed pictures. These types of machines are used to see smaller abnormalities within the body.

What are the benefits of higher field strength MRI?

Aside from the openness of the machine itself, patients often spend less time in the machine when using high-field strength MRI. Another benefit is that these machines offer even clearer images and can help see smaller parts of the body.

For more information on if a higher field strength MRI is right for your imaging needs, call us at (877) 674-8888.

3T High-Field Strength MRI

3T MRI machines are newer in the industry and have a stronger magnet than most traditional MRI machines, making it easier to get clearer images of the soft tissue in the body.

What is the difference between an MRI and a 3T MRI?

The largest difference between the 3T MRI and other traditional MRI machines is the strength of the magnet that the machine has. This machine is typically 3x stronger than closed-bore MRI machines, and up to 10x stronger than most open-MRI machines.

Benefits of 3T MRI Machines

Due to the magnet’s strength, time in the machine is on average lower as well, with most patients spending about 15-20 minutes inside as opposed to the traditional 15-90 minutes for other MRI scans. Other benefits of the 3T MRI are

The imaging speeds of these machines are so fast, they can capture a beating heart
Very small structures in the brain are visible at very high resolution to fully diagnose the extent of traumatic brain injury (TBI)
These machines are able to diagnose orthopedic and neurological injuries that can be missed on traditional MRI
The larger, 70 mm bore can accommodate patients up to 500 pounds
Incredibly safe and highly accurate in the diagnosis of pediatric scoliosis

Interested in learning more? Contact us today at (877) 674-8888 or schedule your appointment online.

Open MRI Advantages

An open MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a type of medical imaging technology that uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses, and a computer to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. Unlike traditional closed MRIs, which have a narrow, enclosed space for the patient to lie in, open MRIs have a larger opening and are less confining. This design allows for better patient comfort and reduced feelings of claustrophobia or anxiety. Open MRIs are used to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions, including injuries, diseases, and tumors. They can also be used to guide surgical procedures and to monitor the progress of treatment.

Reduced claustrophobia and anxiety: The larger opening in an open MRI can help to reduce feelings of claustrophobia or anxiety for patients who have trouble with enclosed spaces.
Better for larger patients: Open MRIs are often better for patients who are overweight or have larger body types, as the larger opening allows for more comfortable positioning during the scan.
Quieter: Open MRIs tend to be quieter than closed MRIs, which can also help to reduce anxiety for patients.
Wider range of imaging options: Open MRIs can also provide a wider range of imaging options, such as 3D imaging, which can be beneficial for certain types of diagnostic procedures.
Less restrictive: Open MRIs are less restrictive, providing more room for patients to move, this can make it easier for patients to hold still during the scan which results in clearer images.

Why Choose Expert MRI for MRI Services

ExpertMRI is a leading provider of MRI services, offering a wide range of imaging options for patients and healthcare providers.

One of the main reasons to choose ExpertMRI for your MRI needs is the quality of our imaging. Our state-of-the-art equipment and experienced technologists ensure that every scan is performed with the highest level of accuracy and detail. This allows for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, which can ultimately lead to better outcomes for patients.

In addition to the quality of our imaging, ExpertMRI also offers a convenient and comfortable patient experience. Our facilities are designed with patient comfort in mind, and we offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate busy schedules. We also provide patient education and support to help ensure that patients understand the process and feel comfortable throughout the examination.

Another key advantage of choosing ExpertMRI is our team of experienced radiologists. Our radiologists are all board-certified and have extensive experience interpreting MRI images. They work closely with referring physicians to provide timely and accurate results, and are available to discuss findings and answer any questions.

ExpertMRI also offers a wide range of MRI services, including neuroimaging, musculoskeletal imaging, and body imaging. This allows us to meet the diverse needs of our patients and referring physicians.

In summary, ExpertMRI is a top choice for MRI services due to the quality of our imaging, patient-centered approach, and experienced team of radiologists. We are committed to providing the best possible care to our patients and strive to make the MRI experience as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Receiving an X-Ray Scan

What are X-ray scans used for?

X-rays are most often used to look at bones and joints, but they can also be used to detect certain soft tissue issues. For instance, a tumor is denser than soft tissue, so it appears white on the X-ray image. Your doctor might order an X-ray scan for possible bone fractures, tooth problems, foreign objects, or abnormal masses. X-rays can examine most areas of the body.

How do X-rays work?

A negatively charged electrode is heated by electricity, and electrons are released, producing energy. The energy is directed toward a metal plate at a high velocity, and this produces an X-ray. During an X-ray, a cassette is placed behind the area being scanned. The X-ray passes through skin, muscles, and organs and appears dark on the film. Denser areas such as bones and tumors absorb the X-ray energy, and they do not expose the film. Therefore, these areas appear white on the image.

How is an X-ray scan performed?

X-ray scans differ slightly depending on which part of your body is being scanned. Most X-rays do not require the patient to change their routine prior to the exam. However, you should follow any advice given to you by your doctor. It might be necessary for you to change into a gown before the scan. You will likely be positioned on an X-ray table that carefully places the body part being scanned between the machine and a specialized image plate. A technologist will guide you through the process, capturing different angles if needed and ensuring that the images are of clear quality. Usually, an X-ray takes less than 15 minutes to complete, but some scans take longer. The radiologist will read your X-ray images and send a report to your doctor within 1-2 days, and your doctor will review the findings with you.

Are there any risks associated with X-ray?

X-rays use a small amount of ionizing radiation to evaluate parts of the body to detect diseases such as pneumonia, bone fractures or other diseases. So the question is how safe are X-rays? All living things on planet earth are exposed to daily amounts of radiation from the sun (cosmic radiation) and the earth (radon). Although we recommend minimizing radiation, often the benefit of X-rays outweigh the risks. To put the amount of radiation into perspective, a chest X-ray is about half of the radiation dose as a flight from New York to LA because the higher we fly the higher the dose of cosmic radiation we receive from the sun. A chest X-ray is about twice the radiation the average human receives in a normal day on earth from background radiation.

X-Ray at ExpertMRI

ExpertMRI offers X-ray imaging at our 11 locations around Southern California. If you are interested in receiving an X-ray scan at ExpertMRI, please contact us at 877-674-8888.

Benefits of Front Open MRI

About MRI Scans and Front Open MRI

Doctors use Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) tests to examine your organs, tissues, and bones. An MRI produces three-dimensional images of the inside of your body, and it helps doctors diagnose a variety of medical conditions. During a typical MRI test, patients lie in a long tube. However, a front open MRI utilizes an open-facing design to provide patients the option to lie in a bed instead of being enclosed in a tube.

Radiation-Free

Both traditional and front open MRIs are free of radiation. X-ray, PET, and CT scans all have risks of radiation exposure, but MRI does not use ionizing radiation. Instead, an MRI scan uses powerful magnets and radio waves to make images. It is one of the safest medical procedures available.

Ideal for Patients With Claustrophobia or Anxiety

Traditional MRI might not be a good option for people with claustrophobia or anxiety. A front open MRI allows the front of the patient to stay open. Many patients feel more comfortable in an open environment. It is estimated that one in five patients experiences some anxiety during a traditional MRI. In fact, an MRI scan might be the first time a patient experiences claustrophobia, so front open MRI scans are more likely to be completed. Additionally, open MRIs help prevent the need for sedation or anxiety medication, which a patient might need during a traditional MRI.

Designed for Children, Seniors, and Patients of All Sizes

Younger patients are able to be accompanied by their parents during a front open MRI. Also, the procedure is more accessible for patients with mobility restrictions. For instance, some patients might not be able to lie flat on their back; a front open MRI allows them to remain in a different position. Larger than average patients can have trouble fitting into a traditional machine’s cylinder. Patients of all sizes can comfortably undergo an open MRI.

Less Noisy Than Traditional MRI

Traditional MRI scanners are quite loud. The metal coils vibrate inside a metal compartment and can create sounds as loud as 110 decibels. This is equivalent to the loudness of a jackhammer or a power saw. Most patients have to wear earplugs to protect their ears. Open MRI scanners do not have an enclosed tube, so they are much quieter than traditional MRIs. It is easier for patients to communicate with the technologist during an open MRI. When a patient is comfortable, they are more likely to hold still and allow for a high-quality image.

Front Open MRI at Expert MRI

Expert MRI offers front open MRI scans at locations throughout Southern California. If you are interested in front open MRI, please contact us at 877-674-8888 to learn more. You can also schedule an appointment by clicking here.

Everything You Should Know About CT Scans

Overview of CT Scans

CT stands for computerized tomography. A CT scan combines many x-ray images to create a three-dimensional picture of your tissues and bones. Doctors often request CT scans over x-rays because CT scans give them more details about the inside of your body. CT scans are also called CAT (computerized axial tomography) scans.

You can receive a CT scan of any part of your body. The process is quick and painless. Your doctor will help you decide if CT is right for you.

About CT Technology

A CT scanner is a donut-shaped tube with an x-ray that rotates around a patient. There are beams and detectors, which measure the amount of radiation absorbed by your body. The x-ray takes pictures from different angles, each an individual slice of your body. A computer combines these images to create a cross-sectional image, which can then be interpreted by a radiologist.

Uses of CT Scans

CT imaging is one of the most accurate tools for examining tissue. People of all ages can receive a CT scan. Your healthcare provider might order a CT scan to determine the location of a tumor or certain health condition. CT scans also help diagnose muscle and bone disorders. They can monitor the effectiveness of treatments, detect internal injuries, and guide surgical procedures. These are only a few of the various uses for CT scans.

Preparing for a CT Scan

Your doctor will give you individualized instructions about how you should prepare for your CT scan. You should plan on arriving early to the imaging center. Some CT scans require you to avoid eating or drinking in the four hours before your scan. Continue to take all of your regular medications unless otherwise directed.

Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment. It might be necessary for you to change into a gown when you arrive. You will be asked to remove any metal objects that may interfere with the scan: zippers, jewelry, hearing aids, piercings, etc.

CT Scans at ExpertMRI

ExpertMRI is California’s leading diagnostic specialty provider in CT scans. If you have additional questions regarding CT with ExpertMRI, please call us at 877-674-8888.

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