MRI examinations using a fixation device as an alternative to sedation: In conjunction with guidelines and joint recommendations for pediatric sedation examinations

Abstract

Pediatric examinations and procedures should include sedation. Conversely, the risk of respiratory suppression during sedation is high. The alternatives to sedation were discussed in the “Joint Recommendation on Sedation during Magnetic Resonance Imaging Examinations” revised in 2020 by the Japan Pediatric Society, the Japanese Society of Pediatric Anesthesiology, and the Japanese Society of Pediatric Radiology. At our institution, we have performed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations using a fixation device as an alternative to sedation. Although the image quality was adequate for diagnosis, early detection and consultation with a neonatologist are critical as MRI scans are available until the patient is one month old.