At Iowa Ortho, we understand that undergoing an MRI can be an uncomfortable experience, especially for patients who feel anxious in enclosed spaces. That’s why we offer Open MRI services at our Des Moines clinic, giving you access to high-quality orthopedic imaging in a spacious, non-claustrophobic environment.
Whether you’re dealing with joint pain, sports injuries, or recovering from orthopedic surgery, our open MRI machine delivers the same precise diagnostic results as a traditional MRI, but with a more comfortable experience.
What Is an Open MRI?
An open MRI uses the same magnetic imaging technology as a traditional MRI, but with a more open design. Instead of being fully enclosed, the open MRI allows more space on the sides and often above, which reduces feelings of confinement and helps patients stay relaxed during the scan.
This makes it ideal for:
- Patients with claustrophobia
- Children or individuals with anxiety
- Larger-bodied patients
- Anyone who prefers a more open experience
Open MRIs are especially useful for orthopedic care, offering detailed images of muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and joints to help guide diagnosis and treatment.
Conditions We Diagnose with MRI Scans
Our open MRI in Des Moines helps Iowa Ortho providers diagnose a wide range of orthopedic conditions, including:
- Knee injuries, including ligament or meniscus tears
- Shoulder pain, rotator cuff injuries, and labral tears
- Spinal conditions, including disc herniation and nerve compression
- Sports injuries involving soft tissue
- Post-surgical imaging and progress monitoring
What to Expect During Your Open MRI at Iowa Ortho
When you arrive for your open MRI scan, here’s what you can expect:
Before the MRI:
- Remove all jewelry, piercings, and metal objects.
- Take out any hair pins, barrettes, or clips.
- Secure personal items and valuables in a locker.
- Remove eyeglasses and hearing aids.
- Change into an MRI-safe outfit, which we will provide.
During the MRI:
- You’ll lie on the scan table while the technologist positions you for the most accurate imaging.
- The table will slowly move into the open MRI machine.
- A technologist will monitor and communicate with you through a built-in intercom system.
- You may receive headphones and music for relaxation. If not, you’ll be given earplugs.
- Some patients even fall asleep during the scan!
- Try to stay still and relaxed to ensure the clearest images.
- A typical scan takes 30 minutes or longer, depending on what your provider needs.
What to Bring to Your MRI Appointment
To help your appointment go smoothly, please bring:
- Your insurance card
- A valid photo ID
- Any co-payments or account balances (payment is collected at check-in)
How to Schedule an Open MRI at Iowa Ortho
Here’s how the scheduling process works:
- Start with an appointment with an Iowa Ortho provider, who will assess your condition.
- If needed, your provider will order an MRI as part of your treatment plan.
- Our outpatient testing team will call to schedule your MRI and help you complete necessary paperwork, including a pre-screening form.
- You may be asked to provide:
- Previous imaging records of the area being scanned
- Past treatment or surgical notes (we can help gather these)
Why Choose Iowa Ortho for Your MRI?
At Iowa Ortho, we’re focused on delivering patient-centered orthopedic care. Our open MRI service is one more way we make diagnostics more accessible and less intimidating.
Benefits of choosing Iowa Ortho’s Open MRI:
- Comfortable, non-claustrophobic design
- Expert radiologists specializing in musculoskeletal imaging
- Seamless integration with your orthopedic care team
- Convenient scheduling and central location in Des Moines