How to Prepare for Most MRI Exams
Child (Under 6 Years of Age)

Please call the hospital department if you think your child has a condition that might prevent a MRI exam.

Contraindications:

• Pacemaker
• Aneurysm clips
• Inner ear implants
• Bone or neuro stimulations
• Metal shavings and / or BB's in your eyes
• Permanent eyeliner
• Some physical limitations
• Recent surgery

Plan ahead:

Because motion can distort MRI images, it will be necessary for your child to remain still during his or her MRI examination. For this reason, pediatric MRI examinations are generally performed in a hospital setting where your child can be monitored under sedation.

• Preparation instructions vary by the age of the child.

Children 2 years of age and older
Do not eat for 8 hours before a MRI exam. Drinking clear liquids is okay up to 3 hours before the procedure.

Children between age 6 weeks and 2 years
Do not eat for 6 hours before a MRI exam. Drinking clear liquids is okay up to 3 hours before the procedure.

Children under 6 weeks and premature newborns
Call the hospital MRI department for special instructions.

• MRI examinations are best performed when children are sleepy. We recommend keeping your child awake as late as possible the night the before the test and waking them very early on the morning of their exam. For this reason, early Morning appointments are recommended. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your child's scheduled appointment time to register at the radiology reception desk.
  
  
• Leave valuables and metal objects at home. MRI examinations involve very strong magnetic fields. Remove keys and watches. The magnet can erase the information on credit cards.
  
  
• Bring your child's most recent x-ray, CT or MRI scans. Bring your child's health insurance information and any necessary forms.
  
  
• Bring a bottle or snacks for young children to drink / eat after the examination is complete.
  
  
• Plan for at least 2 hours to complete the exam. The length of your child's scan will depend on the type of procedure, level of sedation and monitoring required. Very young children (under 6 weeks or premature newborns) require longer monitoring. This will include an overnight hospital stay.

After your child's MRI exam:

• Your child may eat normally after a MRI examination. Children should be encouraged to drink extra fluids. This helps to flush out contrast agent if it is administered during the procedure.
  
  
• A restful level of activity is recommended for 24 hours following any examination or procedure performed under sedation. Sedation causes drowsiness and temporarily impairs coordination. For your child's safety, bicycle riding, skating, swimming or other such activities should be avoided.
  
  
• Always follow up with your child's physician after any diagnostic examination. The results of your child's examination will be forwarded to his or her physician, who will discuss your child's results and any treatment recommendations with you.