What is Positional MRI?
The Positional MRI (or Open MRI) allows for all parts of the body to be scanned in a weight-bearing state which maximizes the probability of finding a problem. Also called Upright MRI or Stand-Up MRI, Positional MRIs differ from traditional lay-down MRIs in several ways:
| Positional MRI | Traditional MRI | |
|---|---|---|
| Scan positions | Several | Lay down only |
| Weight restrictions | None | Patient size and weight limited |
| Claustrophobic | No | Yes |
| Drugs sometimes needed | No | Yes |
Better Imaging with Positional MRI
The Positional MRI allows us to move the patient's area of pain to the center of the magnet and also allows the patient to recreate a certain position or motion (e.g., flexion, extension, rotation or lateral bending) that is causing pain. It can also be used for patients with heart and lung conditions who are unable to tolerate lying down. All of these factors result in better imaging and a greater chance of finding the problem.
FONAR Scientific Papers
Several scientific papers recently published in international radiology journals demonstrate the clinical benefits of the FONAR 0.6T Upright MRI.:
The doctors of SUMA-MRI center have helped many Minnesota Open MRI (Stand Up MRI) patients find injuries that traditional lay-down MRI scanners can miss. Positional MRI, also referred to as Upright MRI, scans allow our experts and your doctor to see the pain you feel. If your doctor has recommended you have an MRI for an injury, consider the Midwest Open MRI experts at SUMA-MRI.
