MRI for babies

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a way of taking detailed pictures of the inside of the body. MRI uses radio waves in a magnetic field and does not involve x-rays or the use of ionizing radiation.  

We conduct our MRI’s at The Centre for Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CAMRI) which is based just across the road from Auckland City Hospital at the University of Auckland. There is free parking available for you.

Upon arrival to the MRI appointment, the team will help you to complete a safety questionnaire and to make sure that your baby isn’t wearing anything metal or have any plastic poppers on their clothing.

To help settle the baby prior to the scan, the ‘feed and wrap’ method is used, which simply means they are fed, then wrapped to help let them fall into a natural sleep. When the baby is in a deep sleep, they are transferred into the MRI scanner, nested into a bean bag. Extra foam padding is provided to help position the baby and keep them comfortable and still. To reduce the sound of the MRI for the baby, they are fitted with earplugs and extra earmuffs or padding. Any parents joining their baby in the MRI scan room will also be provided with earplugs and earmuffs to wear during the scan.

The MRI makes a noise that isn’t usually frightening, and in many cases can even help to soothe the baby into a deeper sleep, like white noise. If a baby wakes and becomes unhappy, the scanner (and noise) can be stopped at any time.

During the scan, we also monitor the baby’s oxygen levels (and pulse), this monitor also indicates if the baby has woken up and needs to be resettled.

Yes, you can. A member of the research team will talk you through all steps and answer your questions.  

How long does an MRI take?

This will depend on what is being scanned, but often researchers will allow around 60-75 minutes for the scan to be completed and then extra time (usually around an hour) before to allow time to change nappies/ feed/get settled before the scan time.

Will the baby feel anything?

No. The machine does all the work, people don’t usually feel anything, but the scanner does make a noise, so earplugs and earmuffs are provided.

My baby is preterm. Is it still safe?

Yes. This method is used often and has been shown to be safe even for unborn babies. The scanner uses magnetic fields naturally occurring in the body so there’s no radiation risk involved in having an MRI scan.   

What do I dress my baby in?

As the MRI is essentially a big magnet, the baby cannot wear any clothing with metal (such as zips or snaps), as the metal will interfere with the scan. We also try to avoid plastic poppers/snaps on babies clothing too in case they warm up in the scan. Often the simplest option is a singlet, nappy and a breathable blanket to wrap them in.

A parent can accompany their baby in the scan room, but it’s a good idea to avoid wearing any loose metal items like hair clips and loose jewellery as these will need to be removed.