Dimensions of an MRI Machine

 

The MRI machine dimensions will depend on what type of MRI equipment it is. Some MRI machines will require its own room (4 x 4 m, shielded is not uncommon) to house the various components. The magnet in some of these machines will weigh over 1720 kg. 

Types 

The typical MRI machine consists of a big, cylinder-shaped tube. The patient will lie down on a table. The table will be slid in the middle of the apparatus. As such the patient is surrounded by the machine. Those who are claustrophobic may use the short-bore MRI. 

The short-bore does not surround the patient totally. The same is true for the open MRI. It should be stated though, that some examinations may not be conducted with the open MRI. It should also be noted that the person processing the info is in another room, separate from the machine. 

Purpose 

Whatever the MRI machine dimensions are, it is capable of diagnosing many health conditions. Usually the MRI is used to get detailed views of the various organs in the body. In particular the machine is used to examine the heart, liver and chest areas. 

Many people also undergo an MRI scan to check the pelvic organs (ovaries for women and prostate for men). The blood vessels and breasts may be examined as well. Another of the more common functions of the MRI is to evaluate the pelvic and hip bones. 

The MRI can also be used to check for other ailments like gallbladder disease, liver disease and problems with the arteries. 

Benefits and Advantages

The chief benefit of MRI tests is that the patient is not exposed to radiation. During an MRI, conditions like lesions and tumors may be uncovered. It is also possible to record heart ailments and various types of cancers in an MRI. 

Another benefit is that an MRI can examine areas that other tests cannot due to bone blocking. The biliary system can be assessed in the MRI without resorting to an injection. 

Warning

Medical devices that have metal may cause problem with MRI. Metal chips around the eyeballs, metal implants, insulin pumps, bullet fragments in the body and artificial heart valves may cause problems with the MRI. 

Usually, people with any of those metal devices on them cannot undergo the examination regardless of the MRI machine dimensions. To be certain, consult your doctor. They will tell you if you can undergo the MRI or if another one has to be done.