What is MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging technique that uses a strong magnetic field and sensors to acquire detailed images of the internal structures of the body.

Your MRI exam at Valley Open MRI & Diagnostic Center can be performed on either a Hitachi Airis II 0.3T OPEN MRI scanner or our new Toshiba EXCELART™ 1.5T MRI scanner

Toshiba EXCELART™ scanner
What’s the difference between the sound of an MRI exam and a jumbo jet during take off? Not much. Until now.

With the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) becoming more advanced and widespread, the number of people complaining about the experience also has risen. Among the primary criticisms: the machines are uncomfortably loud and narrow.

But for patients at Valley Open MRI & Diagnostic Center, the MRI experience has just become a lot easier. That’s because the facility has installed the world’s quietest MRI system – the EXCELART™ from Toshiba. This system uses a technology called PianissimoTM –named after the musical term for “play very softly” – which reduces exam noise by as much as 90 percent. Instead of being surrounded by the noise of a jackhammer, patients only hear gentle tapping.

The system also features the widest opening – the center of the donut-shaped machine-and the shortest bore length where the patient lies down. This wide berth helps a patient feel a greater sense of openness and reduces the uncomfortable sensation and anxiety of being enclosed.

Why does patient comfort matter? Less anxious patients move less and are less likely to need sedation and therefore more likely to successfully complete the MRI procedure, which can be critical for the diagnosis of cancer, vascular disease, neurological disorders and the evaluation of sports injuries. Additionally, patients are becoming savvy consumers of healthcare, and making their demands heard – above the noise of the traditional MRI scanner.