Wide-bore and open MRI scanners
Many Precise Imaging centers operate wide-bore 1.5T and 3T scanners with a 70 cm opening — about 10 cm wider than a standard scanner and significantly less enclosed-feeling. True open MRI systems are available at select centers; they use a different magnet design with no tunnel at all, although image quality and sequence options can be more limited.
Tell our scheduling team at booking and we will route you to the most comfortable scanner for the body part being imaged.
Music, video, and prism goggles
Most of our centers offer noise-cancelling headphones with music streamed during the scan. Several locations offer in-bore video goggles that play movies and TV shows, and prism mirrors that let you see out of the bore. Bring a downloaded playlist if you have a favorite.
Oral anti-anxiety medication
A short-acting oral anti-anxiety medication (such as lorazepam) taken 30–60 minutes before the scan helps many patients tolerate the bore. Precise Imaging does not prescribe these directly — your referring provider writes the prescription. You will need someone to drive you home.
Breathing, positioning, and coaching
Slow box-breathing (inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4) lowers heart rate and reduces the feeling of panic. Closing your eyes before entering the bore — and keeping them closed for the entire scan — removes the visual cue of being enclosed. Our technologists are trained to coach you through the first few minutes and to pause between sequences when needed.
For head MRIs, lying feet-first (when the protocol allows) keeps your head closer to the open end of the magnet. Ask if this is an option for your study.
Deep sedation and general anesthesia
For patients who cannot tolerate the scan even with the strategies above, deep sedation or general anesthesia is available at select centers and requires advance scheduling. This option is most common for children, patients with severe anxiety disorders, or patients who cannot stay still due to a movement disorder.
If this applies to you
- Tell us at scheduling — not at check-in — that you are concerned about claustrophobia.
- Ask your provider in advance about a one-dose anti-anxiety prescription if you want one.
- Arrange a driver in case you take any sedating medication.
- Bring a music playlist (or your headphones if your center allows it).
- Practice slow box-breathing the night before and during the scan.
- Press the squeeze ball or call button if you need a break — the technologist will pause the scan.
Call us before your appointment if…
- You have had a panic attack in an MRI before.
- You want to schedule at a wide-bore or open MRI center specifically.
- You need information about deep sedation or anesthesia options.
- You are coordinating sedation through your prescriber.
This page is general patient education and does not replace the medical advice of your physician. It describes how Precise Imaging operates today and is not a substitute for the specific instructions on your appointment confirmation. Always discuss your medical history with the provider who ordered your exam.
Frequently asked questions
Can I move during the MRI?
Small movements between sequences are fine, and we will tell you when you can shift. During each sequence (typically 2–6 minutes) please stay as still as possible — motion blurs the image and may require us to repeat the sequence.
What if I panic inside the scanner?
Squeeze the call ball. The technologist will stop the scan immediately and slide the table out. Many patients then catch their breath, decide to continue, and complete the exam without a problem.
How long will I be inside the scanner?
Most single-region MRI exams run 30–60 minutes. The table is in and out of the bore, and you may be partly inside or all the way inside depending on the body part being imaged.
Can I take a Xanax or Ativan for my MRI?
Yes, if your prescriber writes it. Take it about 30–60 minutes before the scan and have someone drive you home. Precise Imaging does not prescribe these medications directly.
Are open MRIs as accurate as closed MRIs?
Closed-bore (cylindrical) MRIs at 1.5T or 3T produce higher-resolution images than most open MRIs. For many studies the difference is not clinically important; for some — small joints, complex spine work-ups — a closed-bore scanner is preferred. Our team can advise on the best option for the exam your provider ordered.
Can someone stay in the room with me?
Yes, after they complete the same MRI safety screening as a patient. They can stand near the foot of the scanner and even hold your hand for shorter sequences.