A wide-bore MRI is a 1.5 Tesla scanner with a larger opening and an ultra-short magnet, giving patients more headroom and space while delivering full high-field image quality. It is a middle ground between a traditional closed MRI and a fully open system.
Also called: Wide bore MRI · 70cm bore MRI · 1.5T wide bore
How is a wide-bore MRI different from a standard MRI?
The bore — the opening you enter — is wider, and the magnet itself is shorter. That combination means more room around you and, for many exams, your head stays outside the scanner entirely.
- Expanded bore opening with generous headroom
- Ultra-short magnet design
- Comfortably accommodates larger patients
- Full 1.5T image quality in 15–20 minutes
- Ultra-thin 1mm slices with dedicated coils for each body part
Which systems does MRI Associates use?
Our wide-bore fleet includes the Philips Ingenia Ambition — a helium-free 1.5T system — and the GE Optima MR450w with GEM coil technology, both selected for image quality first and patient comfort always.
How do I prepare?
We provide scrubs for every patient, no jewelry. Share implant details with our team when scheduling.
What equipment is used?
- Philips Ingenia Ambition 1.5T — 70cm Helium-free wide-bore magnet — high-field clarity with extra room.
- GE Optima MR450w GEM — 70cm wide bore with GEM comfort coils.
Where can I get this exam?
1.5T High Field Wide Bore MRI is available at six of our centers — Palm Harbor MRI, Palm Harbor MRI – Wesley Chapel, Highland MRI, Brandon MRI, Venice MRI and Venice MRI – Port Charlotte. One call reaches every location — we will schedule you at whichever has the soonest opening, usually the same week.
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Medically reviewed by the board-certified radiologists of MRI Associates · Updated 2026-08-25