Open MRI scanners eliminate anxiety for claustrophobic patients thanks to their expanded patient openings.
However, their unique structure requires tailored positioning approaches to acquire accurate diagnostic images.
In this article, we’ll provide MRI techs and radiologists tips on master patient positioning in an open MRI machine Image.
Open MRI Basics – What Makes Them Different
Understanding the open MRI’s design helps explain the specialized positioning it requires:
- Patients are positioned lying down on a movable table.
- The magnets surround but do not fully enclose patients.
- The open sides provide space but limit image quality.
With this open configuration, it is critical to properly align the area of interest inside the bore. Strategic positioning minimizes image artifacts and enhances scan quality.
Align Target Anatomy to Magnet Center
The key factor guiding open MRI positioning is placing the anatomy you want to image at the magnet’s center point.
For example, for a knee MRI:
- Make sure the knee is centered in the bore along all axes during initial positioning.
- Use lasers or external markers to precisely verify alignment.
- Pad and prop other body areas as needed to maintain the knee’s positioning.
Keeping the joint fixed at the Sweet spot throughout scanning is crucial for capturing high-resolution views free of distortions.
Double-Check Alignment After Moving Patients
Patients must remain very still during MRI sequences. But some movement between sequences is inevitable, such as:
- Adjusting for comfort.
- Changing coils or body area being scanned.
After any movement, meticulously re-confirm anatomy alignment at the magnet center before continuing. Even small deviations can ruin images.
Optimize Comfort With Cushions and Padding
Patient comfort directly affects movement during scanning. Discomfort leads to fidgeting that disrupts positioning. Strategies to enhance open MRI comfort include:
- Use foam pads to support the natural curvature of the spine.
- Add cushioning under elbows, knees, ankles – anywhere body weight rests.
- Pad around protruding bones to relieve pressure points.
- Provide extra pillows or rolled towels for adjusting as needed.
- Avoid positions that constrict blood flow or breathing.
Taking steps to maximize comfort will make it easier for patients to hold still during sequences. This optimizes image quality.
Check-In Regularly for Needed Adjustments
Despite best efforts, scanned areas can still “fall asleep” or cramp up over lengthy scanning. To avoid this:
- Speak to patients between sequences about any discomfort.
- Make small position tweaks as feasible to restore circulation and ease strains.
- Offer the option to take short movement breaks when practical.
Vigilantly monitoring comfort enables optimal positioning from start to finish.
Use Immobilization Devices Judiciously
For some open MRI exams where motion control is paramount, immobilization devices assist in positioning:
- Foam braces can isolate appendages and joints.
- Straps or sandbags may restrict the movement of shoulders or hips.
- Bite blocks provide head stabilization as needed.
However, ensure that the immobilizers themselves do not introduce artifacts or promote discomfort. Improper use can backfire and undermine positioning goals.
Customize Approaches for Special Cases
Certain conditions require personalized positioning techniques:
- Trauma patients may need additional stabilization of injured areas.
- Bariatric patients present challenges requiring equipment like larger tables.
- Children can benefit from playful techniques like stickers to “freeze” in place.
Staying flexible and modifying standard protocols is key to achieving good positioning across diverse patients.
With diligence and practice, MRI technologists can become experts in strategically positioning patients in open MRI systems. A thoughtful approach maximizes diagnostic quality for the areas that need it most.
