SUBSCRIBE TO OUR BLOGLow Field Vs. High Field MRI Scanner – Which One You Choose?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Scanner
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Scanner is a sophisticated medical imaging machine used for diagnostic medicine and as you might be aware, an MRI machine works on the strength of the magnetic field produced by their magnets called "field strength" measured in a unit called Tesla or "T". Several hospitals, medical facilities, private clinics, and diagnostic centers invest in MRI scanners as they generate high-quality images of organs in the body which can be used for an accurate diagnosis and hence treatment. MRI scanner is expensive equipment but there is a huge market of affordable Refurbished or Pre-owned MRI scanners available for sale. There are different types of MRI scanners available in the USA and other countries based on the strength of their magnetic field and their structure. The two main types of MRI scanners include High Field MRI scanner and Low Field MRI scanner. Choosing the correct MRI scanner for your clinic, medical practice, hospital, or private imaging center can get quite daunting as you can’t afford to go wrong with such expensive and critical medical equipment. Besides your budget, the other factors that need to be considered before zeroing down on buying a particular type of MRI scanner include the purpose of use, the need of your patients, and the quality of medical care you plan to deliver.
Let’s Explore the types of MRI scanners and their characteristics to help you select the more suitable MRI imaging machine for your medical practice.
High Field MRI Scanners
High Field MRI Scanners – They are also known as Closed MRI Scanners because of their structure wherein the patient is completely surrounded by the magnet. The magnetic field strength of a high field MRI scanner typically ranges between 1.0T to 3.0T. While 1.5T is the standard strength MRI scanner required by most hospitals and imaging centers, 3T strength is the highest available in commercial MRI scanners. High field or Closed MRI scanners are more powerful and hence produce clearer images of organs and deep tissues. The reason high field MRI scanners are widely used is that they are applicable in a wider range of conditions and patients, they are faster and they help in a more accurate diagnosis of symptoms or illness. This makes them more flexible, dependable, and profitable.
Disadvantages of a high field or closed MRI scanner
The disadvantages of a high field or closed MRI scanner are that they are loud, claustrophobic, uncomfortable, and expensive. They are not patient-friendly as they can be very noisy, seem very tight especially for patients with anxiety and those who suffer from claustrophobia. Despite being faster, a high field MRI scanner needs the patient to lie still for a very long time, up to half an hour or even more, to get accurate scans. Movement by patients can lead to unclear scans and hence re-testing. Overweight or obese patients cannot be scanned as it has a small opening.
Low Field MRI Scanners
Low Field MRI Scanners – They are also known as Open MRI Scanners as the magnet does not completely enclose the patient. The magnetic field strength of a low field MRI scanner is 0.3T or below. Low field MRI scanners are generally used to scan a particular body part or extremity one at a time. The open design gives the patient more room to be comfortable and allows more positioning options. The patient can be lying down or sitting next to the scanner and insert the critical body parts to be scanned under the magnet. Low field MRI scanners are less expensive and more patient-friendly. They have a very accommodating and non-claustrophobic design.
Disadvantage of a low field or open MRI scanner
The disadvantage of a low field or open MRI scanner is their lower strength. Due to this, it produces lower resolution images of certain body parts. Since the clarity of the images is not as good as the high field MRI scanners, it might make an accurate diagnosis that much difficult. Less power also means that they are more time consuming and require the patient to be there for a longer period. Another disadvantage is that higher doses of contrast must be given to the patients for a low field MRI scanner to detect the contrast and produce a clearer image.
It is very clear then that the suitability of a certain type of MRI scanner will differ as per the situation and the requirement of a medical facility. It is important that you research all the factors before deciding on the type of MRI scanner to buy for your medical facility. While the high field MRI scanners might seem more lucrative due to its wider applications and more clarity of images, there are chances that a low field MRI system may suffice considering the requirement of your medical practice. You can speak to our experts who will first understand your requirement and your patient’s needs and then guide you into making an informed decision.
We are a leading company in the USA with years of experience in dealing with different types of MRI scanners. If the budget is becoming a deciding factor for your medical facility, you can always consider going for a refurbished or pre-owned MRI scanner from our wide range of MRI scanners available for sale so that you don’t have to compromise on the quality of the medical care you deliver. If you have more queries or require a deeper understanding of a particular type of MRI scanner, call us and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Explore the Types, Specifications, Characteristics and more about Pre-owned and Refurbished MRI Scanners.
