MRI & Open MRI in Orange County
Advanced MRI for patients across Orange County — including Open MRI for claustrophobic patients and anyone uncomfortable inside a closed-bore scanner.
MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of soft tissues, joints, the brain, spine, abdomen, pelvis, and other areas. It does not use ionizing radiation.
At Orange County MRI, our team focuses on helping patients understand the visit, prepare correctly, and receive a smooth imaging experience from check-in to completion. We offer both traditional closed-bore MRI and Open MRI, so we can match the right scanner to each patient’s needs.
If you’ve been told you need an MRI but the idea of being inside a narrow tube makes you anxious, you’re not alone — and you have options. Open MRI at OCMRI in Fountain Valley uses an open-architecture scanner with significantly more room and less of an enclosed feeling than a traditional closed-bore MRI, making it one of the most patient-friendly imaging options in Orange County.
Patients travel to our Fountain Valley center from Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Irvine, Santa Ana, Garden Grove, Westminster, and surrounding Orange County communities specifically for our Open MRI option. Many have been turned away or had a failed exam at a closed-bore facility — we routinely complete those studies on our Open MRI in a single visit.
Our radiologists are board-certified, our staff is multilingual (English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean), and same-day or next-day Open MRI appointments are typically available. Most major insurance plans, Medicare, and Medi-Cal are accepted.
Many MRI studies can be performed on either scanner. Some highly detailed studies (very small structures, certain advanced sequences) are better suited to a closed-bore high-field MRI. When you call to schedule, mention your physician’s order and any concerns about claustrophobia or comfort — our staff will help match you to the right scanner. If a closed MRI was previously unsuccessful for you, tell us when scheduling so we can plan an Open MRI from the start.
Before the scan, staff will review safety questions because metal, implants, and certain devices can affect MRI safety. You may be asked to change clothing and remove jewelry, watches, cards, or accessories that contain metal.
During the scan, you'll lie still while images are captured. Some exams require contrast depending on your physician's order. If you are claustrophobic or need extra support, call us before your appointment so we can guide you.
OCMRI offers Open MRI in Fountain Valley, conveniently located for patients across Orange County. Call (714) 957-0317 and tell us you’d like to schedule an Open MRI.
Open MRI uses an open-architecture scanner with more room and less of an enclosed feeling than a traditional closed-bore (tube-shaped) MRI. Many studies can be performed on either system; we’ll help match your exam to the right scanner when you schedule.
Yes. Open MRI is one of the most common solutions for claustrophobic patients because the open design reduces the enclosed feeling that triggers anxiety in many people. If a closed MRI was unsuccessful for you before, mention it when scheduling.
Open MRI accommodates many patients who don’t fit comfortably in a standard closed scanner. Call ahead so we can confirm fit and plan the appointment.
Call Orange County MRI at (714) 957-0317. We’re located in Fountain Valley and serve patients throughout Orange County.
Bring your photo ID, insurance card, physician order, completed MRI questionnaire, medication list, and prior imaging if available.
Many MRI exams don’t require fasting, but instructions depend on the body part and whether contrast is ordered. Follow the instructions given when scheduling.
Some implants are MRI-safe and others require review. Tell our staff about pacemakers, stimulators, clips, metal fragments, or surgical hardware before your appointment.
Reports are sent to the referring physician after interpretation. Timing can vary by exam and clinical needs.
