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Letter: Stand-up MRIs would be valued in Missoula

I have suffered with back pain for about 10 years and could not lay down long enough to receive an MRI to see what the problem was. It has gotten so bad that I cannot sleep laying down and have resorted to sleeping in a recliner.

Then I was referred by a person in Florida to research stand-up MRIs, and I was astounded that such a thing existed. The closest one I found was in Phoenix, Ariz., and I immediately made the appointment. It was the easiest thing I have done. It is completely open (I watched TV while receiving the test) and totally comfortable. I cannot believe that there isn’t one of these machines in every hospital! I not only had my lower back done but my knee, too. What a blessing this would be for anyone who is claustrophobic or who cannot lay flat for long periods of time.

Oh yes, the test for both only lasted about one hour and they cost the same as any other MRI. I am encouraging anyone who needs this type of test to research this option. It would be nice if Missoula offered this type of test.

Lynn Startin, Missoula
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MJ Martinez wrote on Dec 17, 2008 10:53 AM:

" At my current place of employment in Seattle we just purchased a new MRI machine for over $3 million, not including the cost of remodeling or sending our technicians out of state for training. Although it is not open, it has a larger tunnel and provides more comfort to the patient. MRI's are costly already and the idea of thinking a stand up machine is possible at this time in Missoula or other cities is far fetched. The cost for an MRI would skyrocket from what it already is. The facility would have to pay for the remodeling, installation & training of their technicians which adds to the millions it already costs for a new machine. One of the reasons patients are offered pain medications and anxiety is so they can lie as still as possible during the test. Not everyone can afford to go out of state. There is also the question of whether or not insurance will pay for such a test when one is available right in the surrounding area. "

Mulligan wrote on Dec 22, 2008 10:25 AM:

" This is called a "functional MRI" and my doctor didn't even know it existed. He said it was a little difficult to stand up in an MRI, due to the way it's constructed. That's Dr. Quick if you'd like to avoid him for a back consult. It seems that the medical community in Missoula is geared only for heart and cancer patients.

There is an "open MRI" available in Missoula for people who are claustrophobic.

It's too bad the Missoulian didn't see fit to print your letter in the newspaper because I don't think very many people read these "online only" submissions. Hear that Missoulian? "

Mulligan wrote on Dec 22, 2008 10:30 AM:

" To MJ Martinez: Another reason a Functional MRI is needed is because it shows the back "under load." When you're laying down you don't see reality.

The hospitals can well afford to get these machines, if they wanted to. They can hire technicians who are trained already. They are overcharging big time, so it would be nice to get something for the money. I just got an MRI and paid $1500 just for the test which doesn't include the radiologist's report and who knows what other fees they'll tack on. "

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