MRI general anaesthetic scan (afternoon) [patient information leaflet]

Your doctor has referred you for an MRI scan. This will take place in the imaging department (also known as Radiology or X-Ray department) on the First Floor of the Royal Hospital for Children. Please refer to your appointment letter for guidance on where to attend - this will either be Day Surgery or one of our other wards.

What is an MRI scan? 

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan uses giant magnets inside a special machine that looks like a doughnut to take pictures of the inside of the body. Your child will lie on a comfortable bed which slides into the middle of the doughnut to take the pictures. 

What is an MRI under General Anaesthetic?

For an MRI scan your child would need to lie very still for at least 20 minutes, depending on which body part is being scanned. Some children find this difficult either due to their age or a medical condition and therefore your doctor has referred them to have their scan under General Anaesthetic (GA). This means that your child will be put to sleep during the MRI scan.

What do I need to think about before coming for the scan?

Please refer to the leaflet for information about preparing for the scan, special instructions for eating and drinking and what to wear, and what will happen at your appointment.