OPEN ACCESS MRI SCAN

What is an Open MRI scan?

The most commonly used MRI machine is a closed MRI, often called a ‘donut’ or ‘tunnel’ scanner due to the circular, tube-like shape around the padded table. Traditionally, these high-field scanners are judged to create the best image quality, however a significant number of patients being scanned are actually too claustrophobic to tolerate such a confined space.

Our Open Access MRI is suitable for those patients who are not comfortable in a traditional scanner, as the patient will lie between two large, horizontal magnetised plates, so the sides are open. We particularly recommend this type of MRI scan for patients who are claustrophobic (fear of enclosed spaces) or of a larger build (often classed as bariatric), as they are often more comfortable and feel less anxious throughout the scanning process.

Unfortunately, the compromise is that Open MRI scanners have a lower field strength, due to the ‘open’ nature of the machine. Whilst we can still successfully scan neurological or musculoskeletal areas of the body, we are unable to perform soft tissue scans.

Where can I get an Open MRI scan?

We offer an Open MRI scanning service at our Hendon branch, in North London.

Do you offer an Upright MRI service?

At MRI Plus, our Open MRI service uses a flatbed (horizontal) open scanner.

What can I expect when I arrive at my appointment?

Your MRI scan will be conducted by a radiographer who will greet you and check your paperwork, before guiding you into the room. If you have chosen to have a chaperone, they will have their paperwork checked and asked to enter the room. Once inside the scanning room, you will be asked to lie on your back or side, dependent on the area being scanned. The radiographer may use pillows or straps to make you more comfortable during the test. This will also help keep you still so the machine can take the clearest images.

The technician will then slide you into the machine head or feet first, dependent on the area being tested. We always endeavour to scan feet first, wherever possible, to reduce the feelings of claustrophobia. The radiographer will then go into a separate room to watch the monitors capture images but will be able to talk to you via a microphone. The radiographer will tell you when to hold still and may ask you to hold your breath to ensure minimal distortion to the images.

During your scan, there may be some loud noises, such as clacks or thuds, and possibly a whirring noise, but the technician will offer you earplugs or play some music for you. If you would like to bring your own music, please provide a CD to the technician prior to your scan commencing.

How long will my Open MRI scan take?

The test typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour depending on which/how many areas of your body are being scanned. If you require a break, please let the radiographer know and they can resume the scan when you are comfortable.

Once the technician has recorded the images they need, you’ll be free to go about your day. You can eat, drink and resume normal activities straightaway.

Can I bring a friend or relative with me?

You are welcome to bring someone to accompany you during your scan, as long as they are over the age of 16 and successfully pass our safety checks.

We are also happy to provide a chaperone for your scan – please just let us know when booking your appointment.

How much is an Open MRI scan?

The price of an Open MRI scan starts at £399. Costs will vary dependent on which type of scan you require, how many body areas require scanning, and the package you choose when booking.

We have a few Open MRI packages that you can choose from:

The Bronze Open MRI package is only £399 and includes a 1-part Open MRI, on the same day or the earliest possible appointment and your report. A written report of the results will be sent to your Healthcare Professional within 2 Working Days.

You can add a CD of your MRI images for an additional £25.

You can add additional body areas for £200 per area. There is an additional charge of £150 for all contrast-enhanced MRI scans*

The Silver Open MRI package is priced at £449 and includes a 1-part Open MRI, on the same day or the earliest possible appointment. A CD of your MRI images is included, and can be taken home on the day of the scan. A written report of the results will be sent to your Healthcare Professional within 2 Working Days.

You can add additional body areas for £200 per area. There is an additional charge of £150 for all contrast-enhanced MRI scans*

The Gold Open MRI package is priced at £509 and includes a 1-part Open MRI, on the same day or the earliest possible appointment. Your results will be read by a consultant radiologist who will write a reports, which will be sent to your Healthcare Professional within 2 Working Days.

You can add additional body areas for £200 per area. There is an additional charge of £150 for all contrast-enhanced MRI scans*

The Platinum Open MRI package is priced at £599 and includes a 1-part Open MRI, on the same day or the earliest possible appointment. A CD of your MRI images is included, and can be taken home on the day of the scan. A written report of the results will be sent to a GP/Specialist who shall conduct a virtual review of your results.

You can add additional body areas for £200 per area. There is an additional charge of £150 for all contrast-enhanced MRI scans*

For further details, please contact us.

*Please note that all contrast-enhanced MRI scans must be referred by a Healthcare Professional, and is therefore unavailable to any self-referring patient.

How much can I expect to pay for an Open MRI scan?

We have a few Open MRI packages that you can choose from:

The Bronze Open MRI package is only £399 and includes a 1-part* Open MRI, on the same day or the earliest possible appointment and your report. A written report of the results will be sent to your Healthcare Professional within 2 Working Days.

The Silver Open MRI package is priced at £449 and includes a 1-part* Open MRI, on the same day or the earliest possible appointment. A CD of your MRI images is included, and can be taken home on the day of the scan. A written report of the results will be sent to your Healthcare Professional within 2 Working Days.

The Gold Open MRI package is priced at £509 and includes a 1-part* Open MRI, on the same day or the earliest possible appointment. Your results will be read by a consultant radiologist who will write a report, which will be sent to your Healthcare Professional within 2 Working Days.

The Platinum Open MRI package is priced at £599 and includes a 1-part* Open MRI, on the same day or the earliest possible appointment. A CD of your MRI images is included, and can be taken home on the day of the scan. A written report of the results will be sent to a GP/Specialist who shall conduct a virtual review of your results.

*You can add additional body areas for £200 per area. There is an additional charge of £150 for all contrast-enhanced MRI scans. Please note that all contrast-enhanced MRI scans must be referred by a Healthcare Professional, and is therefore unavailable to any self-referring patient.

For further details, please contact us.

Can I have my Open MRI scan funded through the NHS?

We accept NHS patients through the NHS referral process. Please speak to your GP or NHS consultant for more information. There are a number of NHS Trusts who routinely refer patients to us who need an Open MRI scan. These include Royal Free Hospital, Barnet Hospital, Chase Farm Hospital, Hillingdon Hospital and Royal Berkshire Hospital.