When it comes to pursuing a career in the medical field, there are many exciting and specialized programs to choose from. One such program is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technology. But have you ever wondered if a closed MRI machine is open on both ends? In this blog post, we’ll explore this question and share some interesting facts about MRI technology.
The Closed MRI Machine: Not Open on Both Ends
To answer the burning question, no, a closed MRI machine is not open on both ends. The term “closed” MRI refers to the traditional MRI machine design, which resembles a large tube. Patients lie down on a movable table that slides into the tube, and the machine captures detailed images of the internal structures of the body using powerful magnets and radio waves. While some people may find the enclosed space of a closed MRI machine a bit claustrophobic, it’s a critical tool in the medical field for diagnosing a wide range of conditions.
Here’s more about MRI terminology:
Closed MRI: A “closed” MRI machine typically refers to the traditional cylindrical design that surrounds the patient on all sides. It creates a tunnel-like environment, which can be a bit claustrophobic for some patients. However, these machines are not necessarily closed at both ends; there’s an opening at the front and back.
Open MRI: An “open” MRI machine is designed with a more open structure. It provides more space around the patient, making it a preferable option for individuals who are claustrophobic or have mobility issues. Open MRI machines do not enclose the patient in a tube-like structure.
In both cases, the term “closed” or “open” primarily refers to the overall design and how the patient experiences the procedure.
Design of an MRI Machine
Here are some key elements of MRI machine design and components.
Magnet: At the core of every MRI machine is a powerful magnet. This magnet generates a strong magnetic field, typically measured in Tesla units, which influences the hydrogen atoms in the body.
Coil: Surrounding the patient’s body is a set of coils. These coils emit radio waves that interact with the hydrogen atoms in the patient’s tissues.
Gradient Coils: Gradient coils are used to manipulate the magnetic field, allowing the MRI machine to focus on specific areas of the body and capture detailed images.
Patient Table: Patients lie down on a movable table that can slide into the center of the MRI machine. Some modern machines are designed to be more open on the sides to reduce feelings of claustrophobia.
Control Room: The MRI machine is operated from a separate control room where a trained MRI technologist monitors the procedure and communicates with the patient via an intercom system.
Computer System: The data collected during the MRI scan is processed by a computer, which generates detailed cross-sectional images of the body’s internal structures.
Display Screen: The images produced by the MRI are displayed on a computer monitor in real-time, allowing the technologist and the radiologist to assess the quality of the images during the procedure.
Today, MRI technology continues to evolve, offering healthcare professionals a non-invasive and invaluable tool for diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. Its ability to produce high-resolution images of the body’s internal structures without the use of ionizing radiation makes it a preferred choice for many medical diagnoses and research applications.
Midwestern Career College’s AAS in Magnetic Resonance Imagery (MRI) Technology is a pathway to enter this career field, including hybrid instruction, labs, and externship. Come study this rewarding field and see for yourself that a closed MRI is still open on both ends!
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