Claustrophobia and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Reduction of Claustrophobia During Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Randomized, Controlled Trial

The objective of the study is to determine the ability of open magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to reduce claustrophobic reactions, thereby enabling more examinations of severely anxious patients. The investigators hypothesize that anxiety-based claustrophobia that prevents MR examinations without sedation can be reduced using an open MR scanner design thereby improving clinical management of those patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Severely anxious patients with reported claustrophobia during MRI or with the inability to undergo MR examinations on conventional scanners
• Clinical indication for MR imaging of the head, spine, or shoulder.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Contraindication to MR imaging (shrapnells, pacemakers, certain unsafe implants)
• Age below 18 years