Did you know that you can choose where to get your Xrays, scans or other diagnostic procedures done?

Although many physicians make recommendations as to which center you can go to, it is a possibility that particular center may not be covered with your insurance provider, or may be inconveniently located to you. It is a good idea to call your insurance provider and ask which centers are covered under your policy so that you can make the most sensible and educated choice for yourself.

In this article, we will help explain the differences between open (low field) and closed (high field) MRI. If you should need an MRI, this information is the first step in helping you make the decision about what type of diagnostic imaging is best for you.

The terms high field and low field refer to the strength of the magnet utilized by the MRI system. High field units are typically 1.5T or greater in strength while low field ones are less than 1.0T, most commonly .3T. Low field scanners usually have an open MRI design. This is popular with claustrophobic, physically challenged and larger sized patients. However, as comparative studies have shown, the images produced by low field machines are of lower quality than their high field counterparts. This may result in a less accurate interpretation, thus affecting clinical treatment due to under or misdiagnosis.

High field strength units offer many advantages over low field machines. They provide superior resolution, sharper images and feature far more scanning options. The additional scanning parameters enable the technologist to obtain greater image resolution, allowing for the detection of subtle abnormalities in the body. Studies can also be performed twice as fast as low field machines. Shorter scanning time translates into reduced patient movement, better images and a quicker appointment. Additionally, certain types of exams can only be performed on high field units. These include breast MRI, dynamic contrast imaging of the abdomen and contrast enhanced MRA (angiography) studies.

The noise, isolation and confinement sometimes associated with MRI studies have been remedied by the new design of MRI machines. Newer high field MRI units have an ultra-short bore that allow more of the body to be positioned outside the machine. They are also quieter and less confining than traditional MRI scanners. The audio capability built into the unit allows patients to easily communicate with the technologist during the exam. Of paramount importance, high field MRI offers image quality that is far superior to traditional low field open MRI units. With this new technology, diagnostic accuracy and patient comfort go hand-in-hand.

To create a more positive imaging experience, some high field units also incorporate a video goggles system that enables the patient to watch movies during their imaging study. It creates a 3-D virtual home theatre environment, combining digital video and symphonic quality audio. The lightweight, adjustable headphones that are worn during the exam have a noise cancellation feature that filters out the sound of the MRI machine. Scanning pediatric patients can be a challenge as children often have difficulty remaining still for a period of time. This can lead to decreased image quality due to movement. With this enjoyable diversion, most children as well as patients who are claustrophobic and anxious can undergo this type of procedure without the need for sedation. For extremely claustrophobic patients or infants and toddlers, some centers offer IV sedation administered by an anesthesiologist.

When selecting a radiology center for your MRI, it is important to ask what type of equipment your study will be conducted on and whether the facility is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) in this modality. Your exam should be performed by a registered technologist and interpreted by a board-certified radiologist in order to ensure the most accurate diagnosis.

New Jersey Diagnostic Imaging is an outpatient imaging facility that has been serving the Monmouth and Ocean County communities for over twenty years. At NJDI, we offer the new state-of-the-art, high field anticlaustrophobic MRI and video goggles system. We are the only center in the region to offer this amenity. In addition to high field MRI, 32 slice CT, digital mammography with CAD, ultrasound, PET/CT, bone densitometry, nuclear medicine, fluoroscopy and biopsy procedures are also available.