Thank you, Bob! That's the kind of information I am seeking. This is the stuff I don't know. So, if you were me, you'd stick with the closed 1.5? That makes me feel better that I didn't blow it last time. Thanks so much!
Sidesteps, I googled "open versus closed" to see if I could find a comparison for ya. This is one of the websites I found.
http://www.midwestopenimaging.com/SiteResources/Data/Templates/templated.asp?docid=862&DocName=MRI
Ack! I'm assuming "open" means that it is open for you to see out of while you are in it?
I had my MRI and CT studies on an 1.5 open machine. Sigh.
By the time you convert the effective magnetic field for an "open magnet" vs. a "closed bore" (3T "open" is about 1.5-2.0T "closed",) is it really worth it? Open machines are pretty good for joint imaging, but all "open" magnets have their issues with organ imaging. Brain, spine and core should be done on "closed" bore magnets when available.
The latest software, certified MRI technologists and neuroradiologists (along with your neurologist) reading your studies is the best bet (in my opinion.) Not as much an issue on an "open magnet," but some of the 3.0T sequences (T2* Gradient Echo) are not the same as the 1.5T sequences (T2W Spin Echo,) so they loose the ability to compare studies. That is my engineering perspective on it.
Bob
Ren, thanks for your answer! And, don't worry about confusing me. That's all too easy to do these days. I even confuse myself. LOL Now that you've mentioned it, I had read about the software being the key. I have been told (by other folks) that the software at the 1.5T machine where I had my last two MRI's is "the latest and the greatest" but I don't know much about the 3T a town over. Like I said, I just found it the other day. I know it's brand new and, of course, their website also claims "a new level of excellence in imaging". (Of course, they are going to say that. Who would go to them if they say "a mediocre experience for all"??? LOL) but I don't know about their software. Honestly, I don't even know what questions to ask to get intelligent and usable answers. The machine is brand new so I'm assuming the software is start of the art as well but does start of the art equate to best?
Sorry, it's late and I'm babbling. I really only meant to say thanks for your answer and nice to meet you. I really should go to bed and not sleep now. Thanks again!
I haven't been on the boards awhile so I haven't met a lot of the newcomers. At any rate, welcome!
As for the MRI choices.First you need to know that the results of the MRI are only as good as the software that runs them. A 1.5T done at one facility may be inferior or superior to a 1.5T at another facility. Perhaps you could ask this question to your neuro..his preference and experience with both facilities.
Generally the open MRIs are not as good as picking up the lesions but I 'm not sure since the 3T is thrown into the mix.
As for the claustrophobia, join the club. I have to take Ativan before each of my MRI scans. They also put a washcloth over my eyes so when I open them I see terry cloth and not the tunnel. Trust me I'm bad about the claustrophobia. I can get goosebumps just looking at a picture of an MRI, LOL. I also have to have the rubber bulb in my hand to signal if I need to come out. My the time they're done I'm asleep and have been reported to be snoring.
The closed 1.5T at the downtown MS center has the best software in town and the results are the best in town, including the new 3T which showed even less than the 1.5T.
That's my 2 cents. I don't know if I helped or confused you even more.Let me know what you chose.
Ren