MRI & Claustrophobia: What to expect

You are in good hands at Shields MRI. Our imaging technologists assist patients who suffer from claustrophobia every day.  Our staff is specially trained to help keep patients relaxed and our equipment helps minimize anxiety so our patients can complete their scans successfully.

If you are prone to claustrophobia or panic attacks, or are in any way concerned about how you could react during the scanning procedure, talk to your doctor about medication options and choosing the least confining MRI option for your scan.

What to expect: Being prepared for your MRI exam can often help ease anxiety. Every Shields MRI location offers patients:

  • The option to tour facility prior to exam
  • Comfortable positioning with warm blankets and pillows (depending on scan type)
  • Ongoing communication with the technologist throughout the scan
  • Headphones with Sirius satellite radio and your choice of relaxing music, mirror and eye mask
  • The option to have a family member or friend accompany you for support (pending MR safety screening)

MRI sounds: An MRI machine can be loud and we offer noise-cancelling headphones and ear plugs to help cover the sounds.

Open-Bore Technology: Throughout the Shields network, 17 locations offer high-field, open-bore MRI machines, including four advanced 3T open-bore MRIs. All our open-bore machines have wide opening and a short bed, so, for scans below the chest, most patients can be scanned with their head out of the machine. Below are two images of our Siemens 1.5T open-bore MRI machines.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What our patients say: Many of our patients have struggled with claustrophobia and had a positive experience with a Shields’ technologist who eased their minds.

“I had an MRI of the brain and I was afraid because I am claustrophobic, but the technicians put me right at ease. From the time I walked in the door, everyone was very kind and calming…it was a good experience for my first time.”

—Patty Smith, Worcester

“I recently had my first MRI at the Woburn Office. Being this was my first time, I was nervous. However, the Technician and attendant who took care of me put me right at ease. They explained step by step on what was going to happen and how long it would take. Medical procedures are never fun to have. However, the care and concern that I received at Shields certainly helped to make it easier. Thank you to everyone!”

—Angela, Medford, MA