Time efficient preparation methods for MRI brain scanning in awake young children and factors associated with success

Abstract

ObjectiveYoung children are often unable to remain still for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Various preparation methods have been reported to avoid sedation or anesthesia, with mixed success rates and feasibility. Here we describe a time-efficient preparation method and factors associated with successful scanning in young chdilren.\n\nWe recruited 134 children aged 2.0-5.0 years for an MRI study. Some children completed a training session on a mock scanner, and all children received a 15-20 minute introduction to scanning procedures immediately before their scan. We compared success between children receiving mock scanner training or not, and evaluated demographic or cognitive factors that predicted success.\n\nResults97 children (72%) completed at least one sequence successfully; 64 children provided high-quality data for all 3 sequences. Cognitive scores were higher in successful children, but children who received mock scanner training were less likely to be successful. A case-controlled comparison of children matched on age, gender, and cognitive scores found no differences between children receiving training or not.\n\nWe present a quick method for preparing young children for awake MRI scans. Our data suggests limited advantages of mock scanner preparation for healthy young children, and that cognitive abilities may help predict success.