


Many may not understand the differences between a permanent MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and a mobile MRI; and may even be concerned if their test is done in a mobile MRI instead of a permanently affixed MRI. The truth is, they aren't that different at all.
A permanently MRI is affixed within an imaging center or hospital. Heavy lifting equipment is used to install the MRI unit. Once they are installed, they are rarely moved to another location within the hospital or imaging center due to the complexity of the unit's setup and breakdown. An MRI scan is often quick and painless. The only issues that usually occur is if the patient is claustrophobic, as the MRI unit can feel a bit tight, or if the patient has some type of metal implant. Because a MRI unit uses a high-powered magnet, the patient cannot have metal of any kind either on them, such as jewelry, or in their body, such as heart valves, pacemakers or infusion catheters. If a patient is unsure if they have metal in their body and they are about to have an MRI, they should discuss their concerns with their doctor prior to going for the test.
A mobile MRI is an excellent option for imaging centers and hospitals for a variety of reasons. For example, if the permanently affixed MRI unit within the imaging center or hospital is down for maintenance or repair, a mobile MRI can be used instead, which will allow patients to still have their necessary tests without having to wait for the permanent MRI to be back online and available for use. A mobile MRI can be placed right nearby the hospital or imaging center for the convenience of both the staff and the patients. The mobile MRI is housed within a specially configured trailer to ensure the magnet utilized during the test does not affect anything outside the trailer.
A mobile MRI must adhere to the same high standards as a permanently affixed MRI; therefore, patients have no cause for concern if their test is done in a mobile MRI Ultimately, there should be no cause for alarm by either a patient or their doctor if a mobile MRI is used to complete their test.