Lakeland Community Hospital, Niles recently implemented a short-bore MRI scanner for diagnostic imaging.

The bore, or opening, of the new Siemens Espree scanner is wider and shorter than standard MRI scanners, meaning the patient’s head and feet remain outside the machine for almost all MRIs.

“Our purpose in having this scanner is to help claustrophobic patients feel more comfortable and to have the ability to accommodate patients up to 550 pounds,” said Steve Chaudoir, manager, diagnostic imaging, Lakeland Community Hospital, Niles.

The wider opening of the scanner allows about a foot of free space between the machine and the patient’s head, lending a greater feeling of openness.