Do you refer patients for upright MRI scans?
In this day and age people spend most of their time sitting upright, which might also be a reason for the troubled back. So it makes sense that when we try to detect those problems in those same positions where there is body weight on the spine.
Mehta Spine Clinic gives you an option of Upright Spine Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The Upright Open MRI is an advancement from traditional MRIs as it lets the bones and joints to be imaged while weight bearing. This information is very critical to better understand the joint function. The Upright Open MRI works well in sync with the other scanners and gives out a complete and comprehensive report of the patient’s spine.
What makes the Upright MRI unique?
- It is a standing-up, walk-in design which allows patients to be scanned in a variety of positions which includes standing, sitting, squatting, and lying down.
- Upright MRI allows the scans to be done through a variety of range of motions
- It allows the scans to be done during weight bearing activities, for instance, standing, sitting and squatting.
- Upright MRI allows the scans in a position which is relevant to normal joint function. This is especially important for imaging the joints that have been injured or damaged by a disease. For example, scans done in a standing position for knee osteoarthritis may be able to offer new insights into the underlying correlated pathology.
Comparisons with a closed MRI
Closed MRI’s have been around forever. The machine is a magnet in which the patient lies in, and a radio wave for detection. The drawbacks of the closed MRI are mostly in the lack of comfort for the patient. The dimensions and shape of the scanner are small and encapsulated which cause claustrophobia. It takes several minutes to take a full scan, which increases the risk of claustrophobia and panic attacks. Also movement inside the capsule can ruin the images, so it is important that the patient stay extremely still.
