Pelvic MRI Claustrophobia

Well, I was scheduled to have a pelvic MRI done today for further evaluation of the complex cystic mass  found on ultrasound. Having tried the traditional closed MRI before for a back problem, I knew the affect that had on me, so I made my appointment with a place that has the open MRI. Unfortunately, when I got there, I was informed their radiologist prefers the closed MRI for the pelvis. I tried, but there was just no way. I'm embarrassed to say I had a big attack of claustrophobia, and they weren't able to do the MRI.

Has anyone else experienced this problem?? What did you do??  I don't see how I'll be able to do it unless I'm totally out!! I could have handled an open MRI with no problem, but I feel like I'm being buried alive in the closed MRI.  I feel stupid having to admit to this, and wonder if there is any way an open MRI can be used for a pelvic MRI or, if that's not possible, what can I do about my  problem??

[urbangal]

Hi there,
Well I can't really help with an answer for you but I just wanted to let you know that I have the same problem with MRI'S.
i had one a few years ago for another matter also and got
very nuts inside that tube(whatever you call it).Maybe some
ativan or something to relax you? I am now curious to know why I was sent for a ct scan(pelvic and abdominal)instead of an MRI for same problem as you.Someone else will probably have a better answer for you but all the best.
Mary

[sdp4314]

It's quite common in fact.  My brother is claustrophic and has scans regularly (cancer patient) and his is given Valium prior to the scan and it worked wonders.  He says it just helps him relax and sometimes he even naps a bit.  I used to work for an orthopedic surgeon and he ordered MRI's and CT's a lot of the time and we had many many patients with the same problem.  The imaging center's radiologist calls in a prescription to the patient's pharmacy in advance with instructions on when exactly to take them and you would probably need someone to drive you just in case your were a little too relaxed.  A lot of doctors swear they getting better "pictures" with the traditional MRI and CT Machines versus the "Open" machines.  Whether or not that is true, I wouldn't know.


It's important to let the imaging center's scheduler know about your fear so they can make the appropriate arrangments in advance.

I hope this helps some,
Shawn

[Cagney2712]

Thanks for the feedback. After calling several places, I finally located one that has an open MRI with a powerful enough magnet to do decent pelvic scans. I scheduled my MRI for this friday. My doctor won't have those results when I see her on Thurs, but I'm hoping she can at least give me a better idea of what I'm possibly dealing with from the CT scan and ultrasounds I did have done. Fingers crossed!!!

[sdp4314]

Glad to hear it.  Keep us posted!!!!!