At Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, we are committed to delivering exceptional care in a safe, compassionate and comforting setting. Understanding the stress that medical procedures can cause, our Pediatric MRI Suite is thoughtfully designed to create a calm and supportive environment. With state-of-the-art MRI machines, we deliver high-quality imaging.
Our Pediatric MRI Suite is equipped with cutting-edge features designed to enhance comfort, safety and the patient experience. These advanced technologies not only provide superior imaging but also help reduce anxiety and improve patient cooperation during MRI procedures. Some of these features include:
Our Pediatric MRI Suite is designed to make the MRI process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Before their scan, patients can use a 'Scan Buddy' app at home, which uses games and augmented reality to help them understand the procedure and the sounds they might hear during the scan. We also have a Kitten Scanner, a playful tool that introduces children to the MRI process in a fun and engaging way.
At Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, our Pediatric MRI Suite team provides a comprehensive array of advanced MRI services tailored specifically for pediatric patients.
These services include detailed neuroimaging for:
Our team is dedicated to delivering precise and child-friendly imaging solutions to support accurate diagnoses and treatment plans for our young patients. The unique features of our suite help children stay still during the scan, improving efficiency and reducing the need for re-scans.
Child Life specialists are a vital part of the Pediatric MRI Suite team. As members of the Child Life and Expressive Therapies team, they provide emotional and educational support to ensure that children and their families feel comfortable and informed throughout the MRI process. They help prepare patients for their procedure using various tools and techniques to reduce fear and anxiety, explaining what to expect before, during, and after the scan:
Child Life specialists can also be present with the patient during the MRI procedure, using distraction techniques like storytelling or calming themes to help reduce anxiety and keep the child relaxed and still.
Additionally, Disney+ movies are now available for patients to enjoy during their MRI experience. This new addition helps make your child's visit more comfortable and enjoyable.
Child Life specialists understand that a child's medical procedure can be stressful for the entire family. They offer emotional support by addressing any fears or concerns and providing reassurance to help families feel more at ease with the MRI procedure. Specialists also educate families about what to expect during and after the MRI, including potential follow-up procedures, ensuring they are well-informed and prepared. Additionally, they connect families with community resources tailored to their child’s specific needs, providing valuable support and helping them feel less isolated during challenging times.
Sedation is sometimes recommended for pediatric MRI patients, particularly for younger children or those who may have difficulty remaining still during the scan. This helps ensure the accuracy of the images while keeping the child comfortable throughout the procedure.
At Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, a variety of sedation options are available depending on the specific needs of the patient. The sedation process is carefully managed by an experienced affiliated medical team, which includes anesthesiologists and nurses who are specially trained in pediatric care.
Safety is our top priority, and we take numerous precautions to ensure the well-being of children under sedation. This includes a thorough assessment of the child's medical history, continuous monitoring of vital signs during the procedure and the presence of a specialized care team. Registered nurses closely monitor each patient alongside medical staff who manage sedation and are prepared to respond to any potential issues. Our MRI technologists are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), and our MRI scanners are accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR), and all exams are reviewed by board-certified radiologists.
Our primary objective is to provide a safe and smooth experience for both the patient and their family. By offering a Pediatric MRI Suite with advanced technology, supportive environments and specialized care, we aim to make the MRI experience as positive as possible for both children and their families.
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