Pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

What is a pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?

a pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is a machine with a circular tunnel in the middle used to take pictures. MRI uses radiofrequency to create specialized two- and three-dimensional images of your child’s body, without the use of radiation. MRI for children is versatile and especially useful to see tissues and organs anywhere in the body that otherwise may only be seen through surgery.

This includes:

• Blood vessels

• Bone marrow

• Brain

• Soft tissue, muscle, ligaments, tendons and cartilage

• Spine

What are the benefits of a pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?

While MRI and X-ray are both imaging techniques, MRI can take more detailed 3-D images of organs, tissues and blood vessels without exposing your child to radiation.

How do I prepare my child for a pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?

Studies show that children and parents cope better with medical procedures when they are prepared ahead of time. We recommend that you talk to your child about what to expect prior to the scheduled appointment using the tips and information below.

Talking to children before allows them a few days to process the information and ask any questions to better understand what to expect. Although the procedure is not painful, sometimes children feel nervous when they don’t know what to expect or are doing something new for the first time.

When should I talk to my child about the pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?

• Preschool: day of the procedure

• School-Age: 2-3 days before

• Adolescent: 1-2 weeks before

What are the prep instructions before a pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?

Be honest and provide simple explanations about what to expect. Children need to know what they will see, feel, and hear during procedures.

• See - When entering the MRI room, they will see a large machine with a tunnel in the middle. This is the camera. During the scan, they might be watching a movie.

• Feel -  MRI’s do not hurt. If the scan is ordered with contrast, they will need an IV before the scan starts.

• Hear - The machine is noisy. They will hear various beeping and/or knocking sounds. They will be given headphones to hear the movie or music while also reducing the sounds of the machine.

Allow your child to ask questions about the upcoming experience.

• If you do not know how to answer your child’s questions, it’s okay to say “I don’t know.”

• Write down any questions you want to ask before the procedure or call the hospital to find out in advance.

Follow your child’s lead.

• If they do not want to know about the procedure, do not force a discussion or overwhelm them with information.

Practice makes perfect! It’s very important for your child to remain still during the pictures.

• Create a game encouraging your child to practice holding still. Set a timer for 2 minutes and gradually increase time up to 5-6 minutes. It can be challenging to hold still on the day of the appointment without any prior practice.