What to Expect
MRIs are 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 is 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 looked at by a radiologist who's specially trained in interpreting
the scans. The radiologist will send a report to your doctor, who will 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 not difficult to complete. No health risks have been 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, discuss the risks and benefits of sedation with
your doctor. 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 you explain that the neck will be examined and that
the equipment will probably make knocking and buzzing noises.
It may also help to remind your child that you'll be nearby during the entire test.
If an injection of contrast fluid or sedation is required, 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. Your doctor may suggest that you and your child take a tour of the MRI
room before the test.
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