What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a safe and painless test that uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the inside of the body.
An MRI is fairly noisy but does not hurt.
The average MRI takes 25 to 40 minutes to complete. However, depending on the body part being scanned it can take up to 2 hours to complete.
Is there any preparation for an MRI?
Yes, preparation for an MRI includes:
- Your child may eat and drink normally and continue with their normal medications unless otherwise instructed
- Your child will be asked to remove anything that might have metal in it such as eye glasses, hair pins, jewelry, watches, hearing aids, bras
- Tell the MRI team about any metal in your child’s body such as metal rods, plates, screws, braces, clips or body piercings.
- If your child does have an implant, please have information about the type of device and manufacturer
- Your child may need a needle – certain MRI’s require that an IV (intravenous) contrast be given. If this is a source of stress for your child, please share this with the team
- If your child needs a general anesthetic for an MRI – a Pre-Admit clinic appointment will be scheduled where your child will receive preparation
What happens after the MRI?
After the MRI your child can go home after the scan. If your child had sedation or an anesthetic you must stay until they are awake.
Additional Resources:
Watch the "MRI Scanning for Kids!" video on YouTube.
Watch the "Getting an MRI: A Cartoon for Kids" video YouTube.
