Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams are an extremely valuable tool used in diagnosing patients. The exam length and unusual environment can be a cause of anxiety. Historically, pediatric patients needed general anesthesia to complete their exam, but through the MR-I Got This program, patients can use MRI mock scanners to help ease anxiety.
The mock scanners look and sound like a real scanner, but on a smaller scale. It has a bed that patients can lie on and travel into a tunnel similar to a real scanner. An MRI scanner makes loud noises while taking pictures, and the mock scanner simulates those noises preparing a child for what to expect. Allowing a child to practice their scan before they enter the real scanner helps them better understand their role and become more comfortable with something unfamiliar to them.
Since the launch in March 2022, MR-I Got This has had nearly 800 patients try the mock MRI scanner at both Medical Center and West Campus combined. Of those patients, 90% have been successful in completing their MRI without any medication. Additionally, the age range of patients completing this has been very wide with the youngest successful MR-I Got This patient at 2 ½ years old fully completing the MRI scan with the help of our amazing team.
“One of the biggest challenges we face with MRIs is getting the patient comfortable with the procedure to yield the best results,” said Dr. Nilesh Desai, Chief of Neuroradiology. “The mock scanner technology and the knowledge and patience of our team members has made all the difference in the progress we’ve made.”
This program is open to all patients free of charge and is available at both Medical Center and West Campus Radiology. Providers or patients can call to schedule the mock scanner and their non-sedate MRI to follow at the following locations:
- Medical Center: 832-826-1334
- West Campus: 832-227-2039
Radiologist Dr. Brandon Fuqua added, “It’s not a requirement to use the mock scanner, but the patients who benefit most are those who’ve never had an MRI before or experience anxiety. However, it’s open to anyone who feels it would benefit them.”
The mock scanner team consists of MRI Coordinators, Child Life, MRI Technologists and nurses all of whom help the patient through the process and answer questions they may have.
Click here to watch a video for more information or email MRIGotThis@texaschildrens.org.