Magnetic resonance imaging brain sequences in pediatrics

Abstract

There are various pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocols followed in institutes and by individual radiologists, determined by the disease process and the indication for imaging, to narrow down the differential diagnosis. Most times, it is beneficial to modify protocols when the scans are being done, based on the findings seen on initially acquired sequences. This is particularly useful in pediatric patients considering most of them are scanned either under sedation or general anesthesia, and repeat scans will be cumbersome. In this particular review article, we are going to discuss appropriate MRI sequences in scanning pediatric brains and the need for rapid MRI sequences. This is of immense importance as MRI in pediatric patients poses challenges both to radiologists and technologists. Consequently, appropriate MRI protocols should be set to avoid repeat studies.