Paediatric MRI

SummaryGeneral anaesthesia is frequently necessary in infants and small children undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), because of the imaging techniques, MRI environment and potential need for breath-holding to facilitate imaging. The MR suite is a challenging environment for the anaesthetist, carrying risks such as remote location, unique features of the MR scanner and patient-related factors. Understanding the implications of the MRI environment will facilitate ensuring the safety of the patient. In addition, the expertise of the anaesthetist can make the difference between a diagnostic image filled with an artefact and one of superior quality. This review examines developments in MRI technology including sequences, the magnets used, the use of contrast and those aspects of paediatric MRI scanning where the anaesthetic technique is particularly important.