Understanding Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular health refers to the well-being of the heart and blood vessels, responsible for pumping and distributing oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. Maintaining this system’s health is crucial for overall vitality. Lifestyle choices, including diet, physical activity, and stress management, play a key role in keeping your heart strong. An unhealthy lifestyle can lead to conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, and plaque buildup in the arteries, all of which contribute to heart disease.

Common Risk Factors for Heart Disease

While some risk factors for heart disease are beyond your control, many are manageable through conscious decisions.

• Modifiable Risk Factors:

Poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and chronic stress can lead to increased risks. High-fat diets and processed foods contribute to cholesterol buildup in the arteries, while sedentary lifestyles and smoking weaken the heart over time.

• Non-modifiable Risk Factors:

Age, gender, and family history also influence heart disease risk. While these cannot be changed, understanding them allows for proactive management.

Preventive Measures

The good news is that heart disease is largely preventable. Here are a few key steps for protecting your heart:

• Balanced Diet:
  Focus on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. A Mediterranean-style diet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and low in processed foods, has been shown to improve heart health.
• Regular Exercise:
  Incorporating at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, can help keep the heart in peak condition.
• Quit Smoking:
  Tobacco smoke narrows the arteries, leading to increased risk of blockages.
• Manage Stress:
  Mindfulness practices, yoga, or even regular hobbies can reduce stress levels, which in turn lowers blood pressure.
• Regular Checkups:
  Medical screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar are vital to detecting early signs of heart problems.

Innovative Diagnostic Tools for Early Detection

Preventive care goes beyond lifestyle changes. Early detection of heart disease can prevent serious conditions from developing. Today’s advanced diagnostic tools allow for precise monitoring:

• CT Angiography:
  A non-invasive imaging test that helps detect blockages or abnormalities in blood vessels, giving a clear view of potential risks.
• Coronary Calcium Scans:
  These scans detect calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, an early indicator of heart disease.
• Cardiac MRI:
  This imaging method provides detailed pictures of the heart, showing structural and functional issues.

These technologies play a pivotal role in catching heart disease in its earliest stages, allowing for more effective treatments and improved outcomes.

Stories of Recovery

Many individuals have transformed their heart health with small changes. Take Sarah, a 45-year-old mother who, after a routine checkup revealed high cholesterol, switched to a plant- based diet and started jogging three times a week. Within a year, she reversed her cholesterol levels and felt more energetic than ever. Or James, a retired teacher, who quit smoking and managed his stress with yoga, significantly lowering his blood pressure and improving his heart health.

This World Heart Day, make a commitment to your heart. Whether it’s pledging to exercise more, scheduling a screening, or making dietary changes, every step counts. Take the opportunity to prioritize your heart health and encourage those around you to do the same. Let’s work together to combat heart disease and live longer, healthier lives.

Understanding Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI)

Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) is an MRI-based technique that measures the diffusion of water molecules in the brain. Water molecules naturally move in random directions, a process known as Brownian motion. In the brain, however, the movement of water molecules is not entirely random; it is influenced by the structures through which they pass. In white matter, the brain’s communication network, water molecules tend to diffuse along the direction of nerve fibers rather than across them. This directional diffusion is known as anisotropy, and it is the basis for DTI.

DTI provides a way to visualize and measure the orientation and integrity of white matter tracts in the brain. By applying mathematical models to the diffusion data, DTI generates images that depict the pathways of these tracts, often referred to as “tractography.” These images can reveal crucial information about the brain’s connectivity, which is invaluable in both research and clinical settings.

The Importance of White Matter in Neurological Health

White matter consists of bundles of axons, the long projections of nerve cells (neurons) that transmit electrical signals between different regions of the brain and between the brain and the spinal cord. The integrity of white matter is essential for efficient communication within the nervous system. Damage to white matter can disrupt this communication, leading to a variety of neurological symptoms.

Conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease can affect white matter. DTI is particularly valuable in assessing the extent of white matter damage in these conditions, providing insights that traditional MRI techniques might miss.

How DTI Works: The Science Behind the Imaging

The process of DTI involves several steps. First, the MRI scanner uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain. During the scan, the movement of water molecules is tracked in multiple directions, capturing data about how they diffuse through the brain’s tissues. This diffusion data is then used to calculate two key metrics:

• Fractional Anisotropy (FA): This metric quantifies the degree of anisotropy or directional dependence of water diffusion. Higher FA values indicate more organized and intact white matter tracts, while lower FA values suggest damage or disruption.

• Mean Diffusivity (MD): MD measures the overall movement of water molecules in the brain, providing information about tissue density and cellular structure.

These metrics are combined to generate tractography images, which visually represent the brain’s white matter pathways. The resulting images are not only visually striking but also clinically informative, offering a non-invasive way to assess brain health.

Applications of DTI in Neurology

DTI has a wide range of applications in the diagnosis and management of neurological conditions. Here are some of the key areas where DTI has proven particularly valuable:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to the destruction of myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. This myelin damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body, resulting in a wide range of symptoms.

DTI can detect early changes in white matter integrity that may not be visible on conventional MRI scans. By assessing the FA values in different regions of the brain, neurologists can monitor the progression of MS and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments. DTI has also been used to study the relationship between white matter damage and cognitive impairment in MS patients.

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Traumatic brain injury is a leading cause of disability worldwide, often resulting from accidents, falls, or sports-related injuries. Even mild TBI, commonly known as a concussion, can cause subtle changes in brain structure that are difficult to detect with standard imaging techniques.

DTI is particularly sensitive to diffuse axonal injury, a type of brain damage that occurs when the brain’s white matter is stretched or sheared. This type of injury is common in TBI and can lead to long-term cognitive and emotional difficulties. By identifying areas of reduced FA, DTI helps clinicians assess the severity of TBI and guide rehabilitation strategies.

• Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, leading to brain tissue damage. The extent and location of the damage determine the symptoms and the patient’s recovery prospects.

DTI can provide valuable information about the integrity of white matter tracts following a stroke.

This information can help predict a patient’s recovery potential and guide rehabilitation efforts. For example, DTI can identify which motor pathways are still intact, aiding in the development of personalized physical therapy programs.

• Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, are characterized by the progressive loss of neurons and their connections. DTI has been used to study the changes in white matter that occur in these conditions, offering insights into disease mechanisms and progression.

In Alzheimer’s disease, for instance, DTI has revealed disruptions in the white matter tracts that connect memory-related regions of the brain. This information can complement other diagnostic tools, such as PET scans and cognitive testing, to provide a more comprehensive assessment of the disease.

• Surgical Planning and Navigation

In neurosurgery, precise knowledge of the brain’s anatomy is crucial to avoid damaging critical areas during surgery. DTI can map out the white matter tracts surrounding a tumor or lesion, allowing surgeons to plan their approach more effectively. By preserving key pathways, DTI-guided surgery can help reduce postoperative complications and improve patient outcomes.

The Patient’s Perspective: What to Expect from a DTI Scan

For patients undergoing a DTI scan, the experience is similar to that of a standard MRI. The patient lies still on a table that slides into the MRI machine, which takes a series of images over 30 to 60 minutes. The procedure is non-invasive and does not involve radiation, making it a safe option for most patients.

The primary difference between a DTI scan and a conventional MRI is the type of information obtained. While a standard MRI provides detailed images of the brain’s structure, DTI adds another layer of information by revealing how water molecules move through the brain’s tissues. This additional data can be crucial in diagnosing and managing neurological conditions.

Patients with neurological disorders often experience uncertainty and anxiety about their condition. The ability of DTI to provide detailed insights into the brain’s connectivity can offer reassurance by enabling more accurate diagnoses and more personalized treatment plans. For example, a patient with MS may benefit from regular DTI scans to monitor disease progression and adjust therapy accordingly.

The Healthcare Professional’s Perspective: Integrating DTI into Clinical Practice

For neurologists and other healthcare professionals, DTI offers a powerful tool to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient care. By providing detailed information about the brain’s white matter, DTI can uncover abnormalities that may not be visible on conventional MRI scans. This capability is particularly valuable in complex cases where the diagnosis is uncertain.

Integrating DTI into clinical practice requires collaboration between radiologists, neurologists, and other specialists. Radiologists play a key role in interpreting DTI results and generating tractography images, while neurologists use this information to make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment. In some cases, DTI findings may prompt further testing or a referral to a specialist.

For healthcare professionals, staying informed about the latest advances in medical imaging is essential. DTI is a rapidly evolving field, with ongoing research exploring new applications and refining existing techniques. By incorporating DTI into their practice, healthcare providers can offer patients access to cutting-edge diagnostics and improve overall care quality.

The Future of DTI: Advancing Neurological Diagnostics

As research continues, the applications of DTI are likely to expand further, offering new insights into the brain’s structure and function. For instance, ongoing studies are investigating the use of DTI in psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, where white matter abnormalities may play a role.

In addition to clinical applications, DTI is also being used in research to explore fundamental questions about brain development, aging, and plasticity. By tracing the pathways of the nervous system, DTI is helping to unravel the complexities of the brain and improve our understanding of neurological health.

Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) represents a significant advancement in the field of neurological diagnostics. By providing detailed images of the brain’s white matter pathways, DTI offers valuable insights into a wide range of conditions, from multiple sclerosis and traumatic brain injury to stroke and neurodegenerative diseases. For patients with neurological disorders, DTI can lead to more accurate diagnoses and more personalized treatment plans, offering hope and reassurance in the face of uncertainty.

For healthcare professionals, DTI is a powerful tool that enhances diagnostic accuracy and improves patient care. By staying informed about the latest advances in DTI and incorporating it into clinical practice, healthcare providers can offer patients access to cutting-edge diagnostics and contribute to the ongoing advancement of neurological medicine.

As DTI technology continues to evolve, its potential applications will likely expand, offering new opportunities to improve our understanding of the brain and enhance patient outcomes. For now, DTI stands as a testament to the power of medical imaging to transform the way we diagnose and treat neurological conditions, paving the way for a healthier future.

Understanding Medical Imaging:

Medical imaging is a broad term encompassing various techniques that allow doctors to
visualize internal body structures. These images play a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring
a wide range of medical conditions. Like choosing the right tool for a job, different imaging
techniques offer unique advantages depending on the specific area being examined.

CT Scans vs. MRIs: A Tale of Two Technologies

1. CT Scans (Computed Tomography Scans)

A CT scan uses X-rays to capture detailed cross-sectional images of your body. Imagine a loaf of bread being sliced very thinly. A CT scan takes multiple X-ray images from different angles, creating a comprehensive 3D picture of your bones, organs, and blood vessels.

Benefits:

• Speed: CT scans are renowned for their speed, often completed within minutes. This makes them ideal for emergency situations or when quick diagnosis is crucial.

• Detailed Bone Imaging: CT scans excel at capturing intricate details of bones, making them valuable for evaluating fractures, bone tumors, and internal injuries.

• Versatility: CT scans can image various body parts, including the head, chest, abdomen, and pelvis.

2. MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):

Unlike CT scans, MRIs don’t use radiation. Instead, they utilize powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images. The magnetic field aligns hydrogen atoms within your body, and radio waves manipulate them. The resulting signals are translated into detailed cross-sectional images of your soft tissues.

Benefits

• Soft Tissue Prowess: MRIs shine when it comes to examining soft tissues like muscles, ligaments, nerves, and the brain. This makes them invaluable for diagnosing muscle tears, ligament sprains, tumors, and neurological conditions.

• Unparalleled Detail: MRIs offer exceptional image clarity, allowing doctors to pinpoint subtle abnormalities that might be missed in CT scans.

• Versatility (Similar to CT Scans): MRIs can image various body parts, making them valuable for diagnosing a wide range of conditions.

Choosing the Right Scan for You:

The decision of which scan is best for you will depend on several factors, including:

• The area of concern: For bone fractures or internal bleeding, a CT scan might be preferred. For soft tissue injuries or brain abnormalities, an MRI might be better suited.

• Urgency: If a quick diagnosis is essential, a CT scan’s speed might be advantageous.

• Medical history: Certain medical conditions or implants might make you ineligible for an MRI.

• Patient comfort: While both scans are generally safe, some individuals experience claustrophobia during MRIs due to the enclosed environment.

Open Communication is Key:

Don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns with your doctor. They can explain the rationale behind their recommendation and address any questions you might have about the procedure, potential risks, and benefits. Open communication builds trust and empowers you to participate actively in your healthcare decisions.

Reducing Patient Anxiety:

Understanding the purpose of a scan can significantly reduce anxiety. Knowing what to expect during the procedure can further alleviate apprehension. Here’s a brief overview:

• CT Scans: You’ll lie on a table that slides through a donut-shaped scanner. The scan is painless, but you might hear whirring or clicking noises.

• MRIs: You’ll lie inside a large tube-shaped machine. The machine might generate loud tapping noises during the scan. Some facilities offer calming music and headphones to enhance comfort.

Building Trust with Healthcare Providers:

By educating yourself about medical imaging options, you become a more informed patient. This empowers you to ask questions and participate in discussions with your doctor, fostering a collaborative approach to your healthcare.

Advanced Applications:

• CT Angiography: This specialized CT scan focuses on blood vessels. By injecting a contrast dye, doctors can visualize arteries and veins to detect blockages, aneurysms, or other abnormalities.

• Functional MRI (fMRI): This advanced MRI technique goes beyond anatomical imaging. It measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow that occur when different areas of the brain are engaged in specific tasks. This can be valuable for studying brain function and neurological disorders.

Safety Considerations:

• Pregnancy: Both CT scans and MRIs are generally avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary due to potential risks to the developing baby. If you are pregnant or suspect you might be, inform your doctor before any imaging is scheduled.

• Metal Implants: Certain metal implants might not be compatible with MRIs due to the strong magnetic field. Always disclose any implants you have to your doctor before an MRI is scheduled.

Preparing for Your Scan:

• Clothing: For both CT scans and MRIs, you’ll likely be asked to wear a gown and remove any metal objects like jewelry, belts, or watches that could interfere with the scan.

• Dietary Restrictions: In some cases, depending on the type of scan and contrast used, you might need to restrict your diet or avoid caffeine beforehand. Your doctor will provide specific instructions.

During the Scan:

• CT Scans: The technologist will position you on the scanning table and may use straps or headrests to ensure you remain still during the scan. The machine will rotate around you, capturing the images.

• MRIs: You’ll lie inside the scanner, and the technologist will monitor you from a separate room. The machine might generate thumping or clicking noises. It’s important to remain still for clear images. Some facilities offer stress balls or other tools to help manage anxiety during the scan.

Looking Forward:

Medical imaging technology is constantly evolving. New techniques are emerging that offer even greater detail, faster scan times, and potentially reduced radiation exposure. As these advancements unfold, the ability to diagnose and treat medical conditions continues to improve.

Remember: Knowledge is power. By understanding CT scans and MRIs, you become a more informed patient, fostering a collaborative healthcare experience and ultimately contributing to your well-being.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and that statistic is expected to rise to 13 million by 2050. Moreover, only 40% of Americans will talk to their doctor when they experience memory and cognitive loss. While this disease is irreversible, medical imaging like MRI is a powerful tool in early detection and diagnosis.

Using MRI to discover Alzheimer’s

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a computer, magnetic fields, and radio waves to generate images within the body. This type of medical diagnostics technology can be used for virtually all parts of the body, generating images of any specific area troubling you, and providing a quick and accurate diagnosis for your physician. 

When used to scan the brain, MRI serves as a non-invasive window into the intricate structures of the brain, allowing experts to detect subtle changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease before noticeable symptoms manifest. This imaging technique provides detailed images of the brain’s anatomy, enabling healthcare professionals to identify structural abnormalities and abnormalities in neural connectivity.

Advantages of MRI in Alzheimer’s Detection

One of the key advantages of utilizing brain MRI for Alzheimer’s detection is the ability to visualize the hippocampus, a region crucial for memory and often affected in the early stages of the disease. Studies have shown that individuals with Alzheimer’s exhibit a reduction in hippocampal volume, making it a reliable biomarker for early detection. By closely examining these changes through MRI scans, healthcare professionals can spot potential signs of Alzheimer’s before cognitive decline becomes evident. Scans can also rule out causes of cognitive decline, aiding in a more accurate diagnosis.

The significance of early Alzheimer’s detection lies in the opportunity for timely interventions and support. Unlike many other diseases, Alzheimer’s does not currently have a cure. However, early detection opens avenues for implementing therapeutic strategies and lifestyle modifications that can help slow down the progression of the disease. This may include personalized treatment plans, cognitive interventions, and support services that enhance the quality of life for individuals and their families.

The use of brain MRI in the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease is a game-changer in the field of neurology. By providing detailed insights into the brain’s structure, MRI scans empower healthcare professionals to identify subtle changes associated with Alzheimer’s before symptoms appear. The significance of this early detection lies in the ability to initiate timely interventions, support, and participation in clinical trials, ultimately paving the way for a better understanding and management of Alzheimer’s disease.

At Expert MRI, we are California’s MRI experts. To set up an appointment or get more information, please contact us at 877-674-8888.

In addition to our new 3T MRI, ExpertMRI in Costa Mesa continues to offer a comprehensive range of advanced imaging services, including CT scans, X-rays, and Ultrasound. Our facility is dedicated to providing the highest quality care with the most advanced technology in a comfortable and convenient setting.

Why Choose ExpertMRI?

• Advanced Technology: Our new 3T MRI machine offers exceptional image clarity and detail, aiding in more accurate diagnoses.
• Comprehensive Services: From CT scans and X-rays to Ultrasound, we provide a full suite of diagnostic imaging services under one roof.
• Convenient Location: Located in the heart of Costa Mesa, ExpertMRI is easily accessible to residents throughout Southern California.
• Expert Care: Our team of experienced radiologists and technicians ensures that every patient receives the best possible care.

“We are excited to bring this cutting-edge technology to our Costa Mesa facility,” said Dr. Sana Khan, President at ExpertMRI. “Our goal is to provide our patients with the most accurate and reliable diagnostic services available, and the addition of the 3T MRI is a significant step forward in achieving that mission.”

ExpertMRI is committed to enhancing patient care through innovation and excellence in medical imaging. We invite the community to visit our Costa Mesa location and experience the difference in quality and care.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit our website at [https://expertmri.com] or call us at (877) 674-8888.

About ExpertMRI: ExpertMRI is a leading provider of diagnostic imaging services in California, known for our state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to patient care. With locations across the state, we offer a wide range of imaging services, including MRI, CT, X-ray, and Ultrasound, all designed to deliver precise and timely results.

Expert MRI is one of California’s leading diagnostic imaging specialists. We utilize the latest in science and technology to advance injury diagnostics, providing clients with access to state-of-the-art services that ensure accuracy and efficiency.

The Power of Precision Imaging

MRI utilizes strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body. When applied to cancer diagnostics, this non-invasive imaging technique allows for a comprehensive examination of tumors with exceptional clarity. Unlike other imaging modalities, MRI excels at providing high-resolution, three-dimensional images that aid in precisely locating and characterizing tumors.

One of the key advantages of MRI in cancer diagnosis is its ability to distinguish between different types of tissues based on their unique magnetic properties. This capability is particularly valuable when examining tumors in soft tissues like the brain and breast. By illuminating the specific characteristics of tumors, MRI enables healthcare professionals to assess their size, shape, and proximity to surrounding structures, guiding treatment decisions with unprecedented accuracy.

Enhanced Detection and Cancer Stages

MRI plays a pivotal role in determining the stages of cancer, helping healthcare professionals determine the extent of tumor spread within the body. This is crucial for devising an effective treatment plan tailored to each patient’s unique situation. With its ability to detect small lesions and precisely define tumor boundaries, MRI contributes to early cancer detection, potentially improving patient outcomes by enabling prompt and targeted interventions.

Recent developments in functional MRI techniques have further expanded the capabilities of this imaging modality. Functional MRI provides insights into the biological activity of tissues, offering valuable information about blood flow, oxygen levels, and cellular function within tumors. This additional layer of data enhances the diagnostic accuracy of MRI, allowing clinicians to better understand the behavior of cancerous cells and fine-tune treatment strategies accordingly.

Patient-Centric Benefits

From a patient’s perspective, MRI offers several advantages. Its non-invasive nature minimizes discomfort, and the absence of ionizing radiation makes it a safer alternative for repeated imaging studies. Additionally, the detailed information provided by MRI can empower patients with a better understanding of their condition, fostering informed discussions with their healthcare team about treatment options and expectations.

For patients who experience anxiety or claustrophobia, Expert MRI offers open-front MRI scans. Our Front Open MRI system utilizes an open-facing design to provide patients the option to lie in a bed instead of being enclosed in a tube. This is perfect for patients who suffer from claustrophobia, anxiety, or panic attacks. Our Front Open MRI systems are designed for patients of larger sizes, as well as children and senior citizens.

By illuminating tumors with unparalleled detail and accuracy, MRI not only aids in the early detection and staging of cancer but also plays a crucial role in tailoring personalized treatment plans. Interested in learning more? Contact us today at (877) 674-8888 or schedule your appointment online at ExpertMRI.com. 

Expert MRI is one of the top Southern California open-front MRI providers, and our team approaches every appointment with the care and compassion that every patient deserves. 

Moving Beyond Restrictive Spaces

One of the primary challenges faced by bariatric and plus-size patients during traditional imaging is the restricted space within closed MRI machines. These machines, while effective in capturing detailed images, can be claustrophobic and uncomfortable for individuals with larger body sizes. The confined space not only triggers anxiety but also poses difficulties in obtaining accurate images due to repositioning challenges.

Open MRI, with its innovative design, addresses these challenges head-on. Unlike the traditional closed MRI machines, open MRI does not enclose the patient in a narrow tube. Instead, it features a more open design that allows for a more accommodating experience. Bariatric and plus-size patients can now undergo imaging procedures without feeling confined, making the process less stressful and more accessible.

The weight-bearing capacity of open MRI is another crucial factor that sets it apart. Traditional MRI machines often have weight limitations, posing a barrier for larger individuals. Open MRI, designed to accommodate a broader range of body sizes and weights, ensures that every patient can undergo imaging without concerns about exceeding the machine’s capacity. This not only promotes inclusivity but also eliminates the need for patients to worry about whether the equipment can support them adequately.

Inclusive Access without Compromising 

Moreover, the accessibility of open MRI doesn’t compromise on image quality. Advanced technology has increased open MRI machines’ ability to produce high-resolution images, capturing the necessary details for accurate diagnoses while maintaining patient comfort. This blend of advanced imaging capabilities and patient-centered design positions open MRI as a win-win solution for both medical professionals and bariatric/plus-size patients.

Open MRI also contributes to creating a more inclusive healthcare environment. By embracing technology that accommodates diverse body sizes, healthcare providers send a powerful message of acceptance and understanding to their patients. This not only improves the overall patient experience but also encourages individuals to prioritize their health without fear of judgment or discomfort.

The shift towards weight-friendly imaging, specifically through open MRI, is transforming the healthcare landscape for bariatric and plus-size individuals. The challenges faced during traditional imaging are being replaced by a more inclusive and comfortable experience, ensuring that every patient receives the care they deserve. As we continue to prioritize inclusivity in healthcare, open MRI stands as a shining example of progress towards a more compassionate and patient-centric future.

Here at Expert MRI, we offer open-front MRI services. To set up an appointment or get more information, please contact us at 877-674-8888.

If you’ve ever experienced something like this, you’re not alone. In fact, it wouldn’t surprise you to learn that traditional MRI has a shockingly high 52% miss rate when it comes to identifying certain spine and ligament damage.

There is an explanation for this. Traditional MRI places the patient in the recumbent (lying down) position as they are moved through the machine during the scan. The only trouble is that the patient may not be experiencing any pain when they are lying down. Maybe the pain is more severe when they are standing, sitting, walking or bending over. No wonder the recumbent MRI can’t find the problem!

The solution is upright MRI, an ingenious approach to magnetic resonance imaging. Upright MRI is very large and completely open in the front. It allows the patient to remain in any position where they are experiencing pain. As a result, the images it generates can now reveal the source of the pain and uncover an injury that cannot be seen with traditional MRI.

The ability to find an injury or problem within the body when doing something other than lying down is referred to as “functional diagnosis.” This same technique is used with ultrasound and fluoroscopic imaging, but before upright MRI, doctors couldn’t achieve a functional diagnosis with an advanced imaging test like MRI. This is important because, unlike ultrasound and fluoroscopy, MRI is capable of visualizing greater detail within the cartilage and ligaments—the soft tissues of the body.

Upright MRI gives doctors the ultimate in clinical flexibility. In addition to being an excellent tool for finding injuries that can be missed with traditional high-field MRI, some conditions, such as craniocervical instability, can only be diagnosed with upright MRI. This rare condition requires imaging of the cervical spine under the weight of a patient’s own head to provide an accurate diagnosis.

1. Magnetic attraction: The magnet is always on! Even the smallest metal items can be attracted to the MRI’s powerful magnet and go flying resulting in serious injury.
2. Accessorize with caution: Don’t wear any clothing items with metal. There will be a cotton dressing gown available if needed. Remove any metallic jewelry or other items. 
3. Eat freely: You are free to eat, drink, and take medications as normal in preparation for your scan.

Unraveling the Safety Secrets

Contraindications are things that could interfere with the efficiency and safety of the MRI scan. If any of the following contraindications apply to you, an MRI scan may not be a safe option for you:

• Cardiac pacemaker
• Implanted cardiac defibrillator
• Internal pacing wires
• Clips such as cerebral, carotid, or aortic aneurysm
• Cochlear implants
• Any implant held in by a magnet
• Swan-Ganz catheter

There are other things that could affect the scan depending on the type of equipment and other situational factors. Talk to your radiologist and MRI technologist before your scan to see if the equipment is safe for you for any of the following: 

• Ocular implants
• Any type of prosthesis (eye, limbs, heart valve, etc.)
• Joint replacement
• Metal rods or plates in body
• Metal or wire mesh implants
• Vascular access port of catheter
• Transdermal delivery system (Nitro)
• Vascular access port of catheter
• Metal removed from your eye
• Any metal fragments
• Shunt (spinal or intraventricular)
• Insulin or other drug infusion pump
• Neurostimulator/Bone growth or fusion stimulator
• Intravascular stents, filters, or coils
• Electrodes (on body, head, or brain)
• IUD or diaphragm
• Pregnant/possibly pregnant

At Expert MRI, we want you to have the best possible experience receiving an MRI. Please contact us at 877-MRI-8888 with any questions or concerns about your upcoming scan.

References

1. Radiology Info, (July 15, 2023) MRI Safety. Retrieved on January 24, 2034, from https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/safety-mr
2. Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Basic MRI Safety. Retrieved on January 24, 2034, from https://www.chp.edu/-/media/chp/about-us/documents/volunteer/mri-basics.pdf?la=en
3. University of Iowa Health Care, Contraindications of the Research MRI Procedure. Retrieved on January 24, 2034, from https://medicine.uiowa.edu/mri/mri-safety/contraindications-research-mri-procedure#:~:text=Absolute%20Contraindications%3A,cerebral%2C%20carotid%2C%20or%20aortic%20aneurysm

Nowadays, open MRI is a viable option for individuals dealing with claustrophobia. Expert MRI is California’s leading diagnostic center and offers open MRI services for patients who suffer from claustrophobia.

Understanding Claustrophobia

Claustrophobia is the fear of enclosed spaces and it affects millions of people worldwide. According to Every Day Health, claustrophobia affects roughly 12% of Americans. When faced with tight enclosed spaces like traditional MRI machines, people suffering from claustrophobia may experience heightened stress levels, panic attacks, and unease in general. To ensure a smooth medical imaging experience, recognition and addressing this fear is necessary.

In addition to overwhelming feelings of anxiety, claustrophobia can also cause physical symptoms, such as:

• Sweating
• Trembling
• Hot flushes or chills
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Ringing in the ears

Claustrophobia is often caused by a traumatic event in the person’s childhood, or unpleasant experiences or situations.

The Open MRI Advantage

The advantage of open MRIs offer an alternative patient-friendly to closed MRIs. It’s worth noting that unlike traditional closed MRIs which have less space available within, open MRIs have been designed to give patients a sense of openness rather than confinement. Consequently, there is increased possibility for those undergoing imaging procedures thus making open MRI popular among individuals diagnosed with or have a history of claustrophobia. 

We also have options for patients receiving a front-open MRI to watch TV during the scan, creating a more relaxed experience.

If you would like to schedule an open MRI test or have any questions, please call us at (877) 674-8888.