Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan services for children

An MRI scan, also called magnetic resonance imaging, is a test that uses a large magnet, radio waves and a computer to produce two- and three-dimensional images of the body’s organs, tissues and bones.

An MRI scan is used to evaluate parts of the body and certain diseases that may not be assessed adequately using other imaging tests. An MRI is a large tube-shaped magnet that provides a strong magnetic field around your child. It does not use radiation. 

What to expect

You will receive specific instructions on how to prepare for your child’s scan before the appointment. Please arrive on time and plan to be here for one to four hours, depending on the type of exam and recovery time. Please bring a photo ID with updated insurance information to the appointment. If you have any previous imaging records or reports, please bring the most recent with you for review.

MRI safety screening is completed electronically. When you call Radiology to schedule your child’s MRI appointment, a Radiology scheduler will review the MRI safety screening questions with you. When you arrive for your child’s MRI, our MRI staff will complete an additional safety screening before the exam. This is an important part of our MRI safety process and helps us identify implants, devices, or other items that may require additional review before entering the MRI environment.

No more than two adults may accompany the patient into the MRI procedure area. All others will be welcome to wait in the radiology waiting area. No food or drinks are permitted in the radiology department or waiting areas.

You may bring comfort items to help keep your child occupied during waiting times, such as a favorite stuffed animal or toy, blanket, book or tablet, or hand-held gaming device.

Your child will need to change into a hospital-issued gown before the MRI. There are no exceptions to this safety requirement. Some clothing, including athletic wear and other fabrics, may contain metallic fibers, threads, or components that may not be visible and are unsafe for an MRI. For your child’s safety in the MRI environment, personal clothing cannot be worn during the exam. Please also make sure your child is not wearing any jewelry, including piercings; hairpins, barrettes, hairclips or other accessories with metal; or makeup or body glitter.

Your child will need to lie still during the MRI scan because movement will make the images blurry. Anesthesia may be required based on the type of MRI, the length of the exam and your child’s age. If your child is receiving an MRI with anesthesia, our MRI nurse will call with specific instructions two days before the appointment date.

Follow up

We will discuss follow up care at your clinic or procedure appointment. For diagnostic procedures, results will go to the doctor who referred you to us.