MRI units have become faster, shorter and more open with new state-of–the art technology, reducing some of that confined feeling. In order to get the best pictures possible, the part of the body being studied has to be in the middle of the scanner. Thus, if you are having a brain MRI, your head will have to be in the middle of the scanner. If you are having an ankle MRI, your ankle will be in the scanner, but your head will not be. If you have severe claustrophobia, ask your doctor for some medication to help you relax during the scan. Please have someone accompany you who can drive you home if you do take any medication.
We also offer an open MRI, which has a wider gantry to help alleviate feelings of claustrophobia, at the Lifespan Medical Imaging Portsmouth Imaging Center.
Learn more about Lifespan's open MRI