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Open Upright MRI of Missouri Offers First-of-Its-Kind Imaging Technology in State

Claustrophobic patients and others benefit from the Open Upright MRI scanner because they can be seated during most exams with nothing in front of their faces.

Chesterfield, Mo., February 26, 2014 - People who are claustrophobic, or fear being in enclosed spaces, have a new option when it comes to receiving prescribed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Open Upright MRI of Missouri recently opened at 11737 Olive Boulevard in Creve Coeur. It offers Missouri's only Open Upright MRI scanner. St. Luke's Hospital owns the center in partnership with Center for Diagnostic Imaging (CDI) and ProSight Radiology Group.

Open Upright MRI scanners offer claustrophobic patients the best alternative to high-field MRI. They are different from traditional and other open scanners because patients who choose Open Upright MRI can be seated with nothing in front of their faces for most exams, and they can even watch television. The scanner also accommodates patients who weigh up to 500 pounds.

"Open Upright MRI of Missouri offers patients a high-quality imaging option which is available nowhere else in the state," said Kishan Yalavarthi, MD, Open Upright MRI of Missouri medical director. "For patients who are claustrophobic or who otherwise would not fit, the ability to sit comfortably during most MRI exams and relax by watching television makes all the difference in helping them get through the exams so their physicians have all the diagnostic information they need to provide the best care possible."

The scanner also offers unique positional imaging capabilities - patients can be scanned sitting, standing or in other positions if they feel pain.

Appointments at Open Upright MRI of Missouri are available Monday through Friday during the day and evening and on Saturdays. Patients with physician referrals may schedule appointments by calling 314-291-6736 or 885-200-6736 (toll free).

About St. Luke's Hospital:
St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield, Mo. is a regional healthcare provider committed to improving the quality of life for patients and the community. The 493-bed, not-for-profit hospital offers care in more than 60 specialty areas and serves the region from more than 20 locations across the greater St. Louis area. St. Luke's is the only St. Louis hospital recognized as one of America's 50 Best Hospitals™ by Healthgrades® (2007-2014).