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

Abstract

Objective. Young 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.We 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.Results. 97 children (72%) completed at least one sequence successfully; 64 children provided highquality 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.We 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.

Developmental Factors That Predict Head Movement During Resting-State Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in 3–7-Year-Old Stuttering and Non-stuttering Children

“…Findings from our study corroborate previous reports that have emphasized the importance of allowing young children to desensitize to the sights, sounds, and MRI environment. While several previous studies have indicated that the introduction of mock MRI practice sessions before the experimental session may significantly reduce potential movement and data loss during MRI scanning ( Carter et al, 2010 ; de Bie et al, 2010 ; Woods-Frohlich et al, 2010 ; Barnea-Goraly et al, 2014 ; Theys et al, 2014 ; Thieba et al, 2018 ), few have examined how individual differences within pediatric populations may need to be considered when designing MRI desensitization interventions. It is essential to consider what steps researchers and clinicians can take to ensure the comfort of children and the chances of successful data collection carefully based on the needs of the child.…”

Developmental Factors That Predict Head Movement During Resting-State fMRI in Preschool-Age Children

“…More research is needed to understand which behavioral characteristics, including temperament, may predict scanning success across different neurodevelopmental disorders.Findings from our study corroborate previous reports that have emphasized the importance of allowing young children to desensitize to the sights, sounds, and MRI environment. While several previous studies have indicated that the introduction of mock MRI practice sessions before the experimental session may signi cantly reduce potential movement and data loss during MRI scanning(55,(72)(73)(74)(75), few have examined how individual differences within pediatric populations may need to be considered whendesigning MRI desensitization interventions. It is essential to consider what steps researchers and clinicians can take to ensure the comfort of children and the chances of successful data collection carefully based on the needs of the child.…”