Advanced Open Hip MRI in Houston — Walters Road

Understand the examination

About Open Hip MRI

When booking an open hip MRI, explain whether you can lie comfortably and whether walking or transferring onto a table requires assistance. Ask about positioning for the hip named on your order. An open environment can be part of a comfort plan, but the team also needs to understand joint stiffness, pain and any movement restrictions before the visit.

For details about the examination itself, see our Hip MRI guide. Compare all open MRI examinations at Walters Road.

An open examination with hip-specific positioning

A dedicated hip MRI is different from a general pelvic MRI. Confirm the side, previous surgery and whether an arthrogram is requested. Hip replacement information should be reviewed before the appointment; the open design does not by itself determine implant suitability or image quality. If both hips are ordered, ask scheduling how the examinations and estimate will be organized.

Scan Preparation

A doctor’s order is required before your scan. Confirm the side and any arthrogram instructions. Describe walking aids, transfer needs and movement restrictions after hip surgery. Follow your clinician’s restrictions and discuss them with the imaging team rather than assuming the scan requires you to ignore them.

One hip, both hips or a pelvic examination

Booking starts with the named joint and side. A dedicated hip examination, a pelvic study and an MR arthrogram are different requests. If you have a replacement, tell the team which hip and provide the requested implant information so safety and the imaging plan can be reviewed.

MRI safety and your appointment

Open MRI still requires safety screening. Tell the team about implants, metal, possible pregnancy, kidney conditions and previous contrast reactions. Follow the preparation instructions for your appointment.

During your open MRI

Your hip and leg are positioned for the requested joint images. Tell the technologist about any restriction on rotating or moving that leg before positioning begins. Ask for help with transfers if standing up is difficult.

Imaging Results & Reports

Your radiologist’s report goes to the ordering clinician, who will explain the findings and next steps. Contact our records team for copies of your images or report.