I am not claustrophobic, and have had to have a few "tube" MRI's in the past.

A few years ago, I had the lovely experience of an open air MRI, and I must say, I loved it, and will NOT ever have a "tube" MRI again:

- the open air is quieter
- the atmosphere is more relaxed
- the personnel are more pleasant, since you can see the outside world
- the airflow - which I never before realized being a factor, was such a relief to experience.

If at all possible, find one in your locale, and demand its use. Why Hospitals do not recognize the need to have them in their facility is beyond me - they accomodate those folks who are not able to deal with the closed "tubes", as well as the folks who are suffering with their weight.