ImageCare Radiology takes pride in providing comfortable and spacious MRI machines in a caring and compassionate environment. Our goal is to get you in and out as quickly as possible without sacrificing quality of service or results. With that in mind, our staff and healthcare professionals understand some circumstances require an extra safety net. For this reason, we offer sedation MRI in Lake Hopatcong, NJ. It enhances patient comfort, improves image quality, and allows for a successful and efficient MRI examination.
What is sedation MRI?
Sedation MRI is a medical procedure in which the patient is given a sedative medication to help them relax or sleep during an MRI scan. Sedation MRI allows for successful imaging in patients who would otherwise have difficulty completing the procedure due to anxiety, restlessness, or inability to remain still. It guarantees high-quality MRI images while ensuring patient comfort and safety.
During the sedation MRI, medical professionals closely monitor the patient’s vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, to ensure their safety throughout the procedure. Once the scan is complete, the patient is carefully monitored until the effects of the sedation wear off and they regain full consciousness.
What type of medication is used as a sedative?
The sedation medication used depends on factors such as age, medical condition, and the specific requirements of the MRI procedure. It is typically administered intravenously or orally before the scan begins. The dosage and type of sedative are determined based on the patient’s needs.
Why would a sedation MRI be necessary?
Some patients—particularly young children, individuals with claustrophobia, or those who cannot remain still for an extended period—may have difficulty tolerating an MRI scan without sedation. In such cases, patients are given a safe sedative medication to induce a calm and relaxed state, allowing the patient to remain still throughout the scan.
People may opt for sedation during an MRI for several reasons, including:
- Claustrophobia
- Anxiety and fear
- Being a young child
- Having developmental or cognitive limitations
- Undergoing lengthy or complex scans
Using sedation during an MRI, ImageCare Radiology ensures that patients who would otherwise struggle to complete the procedure can obtain the necessary diagnostic information.