What to Expect
An MRI exam is painless. Your child may have to lie still on the MRI table for 30-45 minutes during the procedure, but there are brief breaks between each scan. If your child feels cold lying on the MRI table, a blanket can be provided.
Unless sedation was used or you are told otherwise, your child can immediately return to normal routines and diet. Most sedation wears off within 1-2 hours, and any contrast material given should pass through the body in about 24 hours.
Getting the Results
The MRI images will be viewed by a radiologist who's specially trained in interpreting the scans. The radiologist will send a report to your doctor, who'll discuss the results with you and explain what they mean. In most cases, results can't be given directly to the patient or family at the time of the test. If the MRI was done on an emergency basis, the results can be made available quickly.
Risks
MRIs are safe and relatively easy. No health risks are associated with the magnetic field or radio waves, since the low-energy radio waves use no radiation. The procedure can be repeated without side effects.
If your child requires sedation, you may discuss the risks and benefits of sedation with your provider. Also, because contrast solutions can cause allergic reactions in some kids, be sure to check with your doctor before your child receives any solution. There should be medical staff on hand who are prepared to handle an allergic reaction.
If your child has decreased kidney function, this is an important medical condition to discuss with the radiologist and technician before receiving IV contrast since it may lead to some rare complications.
Helping Your Child
You can help your child prepare for an MRI by explaining the test in simple terms before the examination. Make sure to explain that pictures of the head will be taken and that the equipment will probably make knocking and buzzing noises.
It also may help to remind your child that you'll be nearby during the entire test.
If an injection of contrast fluid or sedation is needed, you can tell your child that the initial sting of the needle will be brief and that the test itself is painless.
If your child will be awake for the test, be sure to explain the importance of lying still.
If You Have Questions
If you have questions about the MRI procedure, speak with your doctor. You can also talk to the MRI technician before the exam.
Date reviewed: March 2014