Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a powerful diagnostic tool that uses strong magnets and radio waves to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the body’s internal structures. This technology allows medical professionals to view organs, soft tissues, bones, and virtually all other parts of the anatomy without the use of X-ray radiation. The “wide bore” MRI represents a significant modification to the traditional scanner design, developed to address patient comfort and accessibility while maintaining high image quality.
The Physical Structure of the Wide Bore MRI
A wide bore MRI machine visually presents as a large, smooth, and typically donut-shaped cylinder, often resembling a short, wide tunnel. The main body of the machine houses the superconducting magnet, which generates the powerful magnetic field necessary for the scan. The bore, the circular opening where the patient is positioned, is the most defining feature of this system.
The bore is an illuminated, tube-like space that the patient table slides into. Compared to older models, the opening appears much less constricting due to its increased diameter. This visual openness is a deliberate design choice that lessens the feeling of being tightly enclosed.
The outer casing is designed to be sleek and non-intimidating, often using neutral or calming colors. The patient table extends from the front and moves horizontally to guide the patient into the center of the magnetic field. This physical look emphasizes a balance between the high-field strength technology required for clear images and a more spacious environment.
How Wide Bore Differs from Traditional Systems
The primary difference between a wide bore system and a traditional, or narrow bore, system lies in the physical measurement of the tunnel opening. A standard closed MRI machine typically features a bore diameter of around 60 centimeters (23.6 inches). In contrast, a wide bore MRI increases this diameter to approximately 70 centimeters (27.5 inches).
While this 10-centimeter increase may seem small, it dramatically alters the patient’s perception of the space. The extra width translates into significantly more room between the patient and the sides of the magnet, making the bore appear much less restrictive.
The physical architecture often includes a shorter overall length or flared ends, which contributes to the less imposing appearance. This shorter design means that for many common procedures, the patient’s head may remain closer to or entirely outside the bore opening. This greater sense of openness is a direct visual and psychological benefit.
Impact of the Design on Patient Positioning
The functional consequence of the wider physical structure is greater flexibility in how patients can be positioned during the examination. The 70-centimeter bore comfortably accommodates a broader demographic of patients, including those who are larger, have broader shoulders, or have a higher body mass.
The extra space allows for more comfortable positioning of limbs and joints, especially when scanning extremities. For lower body scans, the patient’s head may not need to be fully inserted into the tunnel, which is a major benefit for people who experience anxiety in enclosed spaces. The wider opening also provides technicians with easier access to position specialized coils and equipment.
The design supports a greater weight limit, with some wide bore scanners accommodating patients weighing up to 550 pounds. This structural support, combined with the extra room, enhances the overall patient experience and reduces the likelihood of motion during the scan. Less movement means fewer image retakes, leading to a faster and more successful examination.