Open MRI Scan

Open MRI is available at some of our partner imaging centres, from £375 (scan and report only), with your report included. An open scanner feels less enclosed, which helps some people who are claustrophobic. The pictures are less detailed than on a standard scanner, so our clinical team will help you decide whether open MRI suits your scan.

Open MRI from £375 · scan and report only
At some partner centres
Report included

Call 0203 633 5040 Book online

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GMC / FRCR Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist

In short

If you're worried about the scanner, tell us when you book. For many knee, ankle and foot scans your head stays outside the scanner anyway. Open MRI is an option for other scans, with lower image quality.

What is open MRI?

A standard MRI scanner is a short tunnel that you lie inside. An open scanner is more open around you, so it feels less enclosed. Most open scanners use a weaker magnetic field, so the pictures are less detailed and the scan can take longer.

Who it can help

People who are claustrophobic
People who have found a standard scanner too difficult before
Anyone who finds lying in a tunnel uncomfortable

When a standard scanner is the better choice

For small structures, such as the ligaments of the wrist, the labrum of the shoulder or hip, or joint cartilage, a standard scanner usually gives a clearer answer. Our clinical team can advise before you book.

Other ways we can help if you're nervous

Tell us when you book, so the imaging centre knows and can talk you through what to expect.
For knee, ankle and foot scans you usually go in feet first, and your head stays outside the scanner.
You can usually talk to the radiographer during the scan, and you hold a call button.
If you are thinking about medication to help you relax, tell us when you book and talk to your GP first, and arrange for someone to take you home.

Open MRI: from £375 (scan and report only), at some partner centres.

Standard MRI: from £375 (scan and report only), or from £425 with a consultation.

See all prices

Call 0203 633 5040 Book online

Frequently asked questions

How much does an open MRI cost?

Open MRI at LSRI is from £375 per body part (scan and report only). That includes the scan at a partner imaging centre, your report and your digital images.

Is open MRI as good as a standard MRI?

No. Most open scanners have a weaker magnet, so the pictures are less detailed. Our clinical team will tell you whether that matters for your scan.

Where is open MRI available?

At some of our partner imaging centres. Call us on 0203 633 5040 and we'll tell you which centre suits your scan.

Will my head be inside the scanner?

It depends on the area. For knee, ankle and foot scans your head usually stays outside. For the spine, hip or shoulder, the area being scanned has to be in the middle of the scanner, so your head is usually inside.

Do I need a GP referral?

Not if you are paying for yourself. Our team checks every request to make sure the scan suits your symptoms. If you are claiming on health insurance, your insurer may ask for a referral first.

What if my report shows something unexpected?

We will contact you if your report shows anything urgent or unexpected.

Two clinics, one team

Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, sees patients at Harley Street in central London and at our Northwest London clinic in Harrow. Call one number to book at either clinic.