[Psychological behavior of patients in MRI: analysis, proposals for improvement and contribution of open magnet equipment].

Many patients report anxiety during MR imaging. Anxiety is due to immobility, coil noise, high temperature, duration of the examination and shape of the system. On basis of a prospective series of 250 patients undergoing MR studies, we have analysed mechanisms and reasons of anxiety. Psychological strategies are useful to reduce anxiety and improve patients' cooperation and relaxation. The easiest and most effective way is to inform the distressed patient. Information about the MRI examination must be clear and simple. Open field magnets improve comfort and global conditions of the examination realisation. Psychological consequences are less important. Open field MR systems reduce claustrophobia induced by MR imaging.