Neuroimaging in a Three-Year-Old Girl - MRI without Anesthesia: Easier than One Thinks. A Case Report

Neuroradiol J. 2010 Oct;23(5):613-5. doi: 10.1177/197140091002300511. Epub 2010 Oct 31.

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the imaging modality of choice in the diagnosis of structural brain abnormalities in children. Routine scans are usually not reliable in pediatric neuroimaging without sedation before the age of seven. Before this age sedation or general anesthesia with procedural risks and additional costs might be needed. We report on MRI in a 3.1-year-old patient referred after a first seizure performed with a combination of role model and self-experience. MRI with high imaging quality was performed without the need for anesthesia in our daily routine. The imaging procedure was performed without previous preparation needed and within target date.Our reported technique of a combination of role model and self-experience, avoiding anesthesia in a 3.1-year-old girl is suitable for children and it is applicable in the daily routine.